Choosing between hinges and mounts comes down to the type of collection you’re building and the specific needs of your stamps. Hinges are perfect for used stamps or large collections of common stamps, where affordability and practicality are key. For mint stamps, valuable collections, or exhibition pieces, mounts are the best choice due to their superior protection and ability to preserve stamps in pristine condition.
When it comes to preserving your stamp collection, choosing the right storage method is essential. Two common options for mounting your stamps are hinges and mounts. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ? In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of each and provide you with a helpful comparison of their pros and cons, followed by a look at some eco-friendly alternatives.
What Are Stamp Hinges?
Stamp hinges are small, transparent pieces of paper coated with a mild adhesive. They are used to attach stamps to album pages. To use them, you moisten the adhesive side, stick it to the back of the stamp, and press it onto the album page. Hinges are typically a more affordable option for storing stamps, especially used ones.
What Are Stamp Mounts?
Stamp mounts, on the other hand, are clear, rigid plastic sleeves that hold the stamp in place without using any adhesive. The stamp is inserted into the mount, which protects the stamp from environmental factors and allows for easy viewing. Mounts are commonly used for mint stamps or valuable collections, as they provide superior protection.
Pros and Cons: Hinges vs. Mounts
Here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide which is right for your collection:
| Feature | Stamp Hinges | Stamp Mounts |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Provides basic protection, but may damage stamps if not applied carefully. | Offers superior protection, especially for mint stamps. |
| Environmental Impact | Biodegradable paper, but adhesives may contain non-biodegradable components. | Made from plastic, but biodegradable and eco-friendly options are available. |
| Durability | Less durable, may need to be replaced more frequently. | More durable and long-lasting, especially for long-term storage. |
| UV Protection | No built-in UV protection. | Some mounts offer UV protection, especially eco-friendly options. |
| Cost | Very affordable, typically £0.01–£0.02 per hinge. | More expensive, typically £0.05–£0.06 (~$0.06–$0.08) per mount. |
| Ease of Use | Easy to apply, especially for used stamps. | Requires more care in handling and may involve precise sizing. |
| Aesthetic | Less visually appealing due to the adhesive. | Clear mounts provide a better view of stamps. |
When to Use Hinges vs. Mounts
To help you decide which method is best for your stamps, let’s explore different types of stamp collections and see where hinges and mounts might be preferred.
Used Stamps: A Practical Approach with Hinges
If you’re collecting used stamps, which have already been through the post and have adhesive on the back, hinges are often the ideal choice. They are affordable, quick to apply, and work well for stamps that have been previously cancelled. Since the stamps are no longer in pristine condition, the risk of damaging them with adhesive is much lower. Hinges allow you to mount your used stamps efficiently without worrying too much about preserving the gum.
For example, if you have a collection of British Victorian used stamps, many of which feature a mix of common and rarer postmarks, hinges would be a suitable option. These stamps likely aren’t as sensitive to adhesive marks or the gum’s preservation, making hinges the perfect, cost-effective way to store them.
Mint Stamps: Protecting Fresh Finds with Mounts
For mint stamps, (those that are unused and in pristine condition) mounts are generally the better choice. The main reason is that mounts prevent adhesive from coming into contact with the stamp, which is crucial for maintaining the stamp’s value and overall quality. Additionally, mounts provide a protective barrier that shields your stamps from light, moisture, and physical wear, keeping them safe for long-term preservation.
An example of when to use mounts would be a collection of modern commemorative stamps, such as Royal Mail’ Special Issues. These stamps are still in mint condition, and preserving them in their original state is important for maintaining their value. Mounts would offer the best protection for this type of collection, ensuring the stamps stay in pristine condition for years to come.
Valuable or Rare Stamps: Protecting Investments with Mounts
If you’re lucky/savvy enough to have high-value or rare stamps, such as first editions or limited printings, mounts are essential. These stamps require the utmost protection because they can be significantly affected by factors like UV exposure, moisture, and handling. Mounts provide both physical protection and UV resistance, which helps preserve the stamp’s original condition.
For example, consider a collection of early British stamps such as Victorian-era stamps or early Queen Elizabeth II definitives. These stamps, while not as rare or valuable as some of the world’s most famous issues, still carry significant historical and collectible value. Another example might be early Commonwealth stamps from countries like Canada or New Zealand, which often feature unique designs and are highly sought after by collectors.
To ensure their condition is preserved and to protect them from light, moisture, and physical damage, mounts would be the best option. They not only offer superior protection but also allow the stamps to be clearly displayed, showcasing their design and condition without compromising their preservation.
Large Collections of Common Stamps: Cost-Effective and Convenient Hinges
For collectors of large quantities of common stamps that may not have high individual value, hinges can be a practical and cost-effective solution. These stamps are typically used for creating thematic collections, trading, or building a comprehensive collection of a particular country or series. Hinges offer an affordable way to store and organize these stamps without significantly adding to the cost of your collection.
For example, a collection of worldwide commemorative stamps from the 1980s might include stamps from many different countries, often collected in bulk. Since these stamps may not be of significant individual value, using hinges allows for quick and easy mounting, without the need to spend extra money on mounts. Hinges would be a good fit for this type of collection, allowing for storage without compromising on organization.
Exhibition Collections: Displaying Stamps with Mounts
If you plan to display your stamps in an exhibition, mounts are the preferred method. Not only do they provide superior protection, but they also enhance the visual presentation of your stamps. Mounts allow your collection to be clearly viewed, making them ideal for showcasing the stamps in an exhibition setting. The rigidity of mounts ensures the stamps stay in place, allowing for a clean and professional look.
For example, a thematic collection (such as my fungi on stamps) focusing on the history of space exploration would be perfect for an exhibition. These stamps likely carry significant aesthetic and historical value, and showcasing them with mounts ensures that each stamp is displayed properly while remaining protected. Using mounts in an exhibition collection helps maintain the integrity of the display and allows each stamp to shine.
