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This is perhaps the most frequently asked question in Philately (Stamp/Cover Collecting). Currently, we look at stamp collections on Fridays, but other days and times may be arranged. This service is free.
To have your stamp and/or cover collection evaluated, please arrange an appointment by sending an email to: ephummel@easystreet.net
Does The Oregon Stamp Society buy stamp collections?
At this time, we are only buying United States stamps which are unused - in the same condition as purchased from the post office - with full gum on the reverse (stamps before 2000) or self-adhesive stamps since 2000 which are on the original USPS paper. We are now paying 35% of the face value of the stamps. Damaged stamps, stamps stuck together, stamps stuck down on paper or stamps without gum on the reverse are of no interest to us.
At the time we evaluate a collection - if it has at least a minimal resale value - we may offer to purchase it at a wholesale value. Common beginner / casual collections have very little resale value. From past experience, only about 1 collection in 10 has a value of more than $100.
Stamp Collecting - Hobby or Investment?
Historically (prior to 1940), stamp collecting (unused stamps and used stamps on envelopes or removed from envelopes), was a form of intellectual endeavor or entertainment. It evolved into educational and bonding experiences between children, parents and grandparents - learning about history, geography, people, etc.
In general - inflation adjusted stamp prices probably peaked by the mid-1980s. Stamp collecting is not a growth industry. Stamp values are strictly a matter of Supply and Demand. At this time stamp collecting is a buyers-market. Wholesale and retail prices are "soft" for most stamps and stamp collections. Only the scarcest stamps of Top Quality and in the Best Condition, command high prices.
Stamp Collecting - Many Shapes and Sizes
There are many categories and sub-specialties that make up stamp collecting. The main categories are "stamps" and "covers." Sub-specialties of "stamps" include: unused (singles, plate blocks, sheets), used off-paper (stamps which have been removed from envelopes) and used on piece (corners torn from envelopes with the stamps attached - generally this Kiloware - sells by the pound). "Cover" specialties include: postal history, military mail (naval covers, censored war time mail, etc.), First Day Covers and special event commemorative covers like First Flights, Post Office Dedications, etc. Some people also include picture post cards - especially those between 1905 and 1920.
There are many more specialties than those listed here - most of which non- collectors probably have never heard of. Some of these, though very popular in the past, no longer have a following.
One general rule - used stamps still attached to the envelope are more valuable than those stamps which have been soaked from a cover.
When in doubt, leave stamps on envelopes until you can have a knowledgeable person look at them.
Suggested Options
If you have no interest in continuing a stamp collection, some options may include:
- A collection with substantial cash value ($1000+) may be sold at auction.
- A collection with some cash value may be sold in whole or in part to a stamp dealer, stamp collector or the Oregon Stamp Society.
- A collection with minimal value may be donated to an IRS 501(c)(3) charity generating a tax deduction, if you are able to itemize deductions. Generally, very few people can itemize on their Federal Return. A few people still itemize on their State Return - but the state tax rate is comparatively low. The benefit is generally 10% or less of the claimed value. A collection, even a minimal value collection, can usually be sold for more than its Tax Deduction benefit.
- Donation regardless of a tax benefit - putting the collection or a portion of it into the hands of people who would use and appreciate the items (the Oregon Stamp Society Foundation). Or donation to your favorite Charity - many of which have fund raising drives or auctions.
Have the collection evaluated.
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