Topical Stamp Collecting for beginners
Thematic stamp collecting, also known as topical stamp collecting, is the practice of collecting postage stamps based on a specific subject or theme rather than by country, date, or catalogue…
The Complete Guide to Postmarks
A postmark is an official marking applied to mail by a postal authority. It usually shows the date and place of handling, and it often cancels the postage stamp so…
Stamp Perforation and Gauges
A stamp perforation is a row of small holes punched between stamps to make them easier to tear from a sheet. The Story Behind Stamp Perforations When stamps had to…
What is a First Day Cover (FDC?)
What Is a First Day Cover and Why Is It Important? A first day cover (FDC) is an envelope, postcard, or similar item that features a newly issued postage stamp,…
How to Store/Archive Stamps Correctly
Stamps are vulnerable to their surroundings. Paper, gum, and ink can all be affected by light, humidity, temperature changes, and even the materials used to store them. Over time, these…
What are Definitive Postage Stamps?
What is a Definitive Postage Stamp? Definitive stamps are regular-issue postage stamps produced in large quantities for everyday use. Unlike commemorative stamps, which are issued for limited periods, definitives are…
What is Foxing on Postage Stamps?
Foxing on stamps refers to the brownish or reddish discoloration caused by fungal or mould growth, typically resulting from exposure to moisture or poor storage conditions. It appears as spots…
Glossary Of Philatelic Terms
The SSC Glossary of Philately terms is a great place for referencing common terms that might pop up on your stamp collecting journey. You will come across particular stamp collecting…
How to Identify a Postage Stamp
Stamp Identification Guide for Beginners A friendly, no‑nonsense walkthrough for spotting what you’ve got and what it might really be. Before we start If you’ve ever stared at a tiny…
Why Start Stamp Collecting?
Why Do People Collect Stamps? It’s funny, isn’t it? That a tiny piece of paper, the size of a finger, can hold so much, so much history, so much art,…