Collecting Stamps in Memphis

Stamp collecting is a big business and doesn't show any signs of abating. Even though people are emailing more and more and are business for the post offices is going down, more stamps are being made than every before. Stamps will always be printed--at least for the foreseeable future. Part of its popularity comes from the fact that it's easy to get started. Little children often take to stamps because they're pretty, fascinating, and they can collect them in a box or album that's their very own. Like any other hobby, it can become developed into a passion over time.

http://www.stamp-collector.biz/
Serious stamp collectors can make big money if they know what they're doing. This site is a good way to begin to learn about collecting. It has links advising the best types of stamps to collect. Go to the "Browse Stamp Collector Page" to be taken point-by-point to links telling about the hobby, what to look for, where to buy and sell, notable stamps, and locations and times for expos. This would be a great place to start learning before joining a local group to begin seriously collecting. The secret to collecting to buy and sell stamps for profit is to know the reputable auctions and dealers who are honest, plus knowing the value range of certain rare stamps.

http://www.mysticstamp.com/ad/lookupAd.asp?adCode=SC41&gclid=COHkwqvWrosCFQlQWAodMA7vVA
There is also a free catalogue that stamp collectors might want to order online. It's "America's Best U.S. Stamp catalogue" and has commemoratives, ducks and other special runs. It is also a good resource for collectors to find out about history, get tips and other information.

http://stamps.listings.ebay.com/United-States_Covers_W0QQlopgZ9QQsacatZ47147QQsascsZ1QQsocmdZListingItemList
Don't forget about Ebay to see what people are bidding on and what prices are being asked for different stamps. If you're not already an Ebay member, join right now. It's free and can give you some valuable insight on what's selling for what price. But don't go crazy and make bids without knowing how much stamps are worth on the collector's market. And don't sell a valuable stamp for next to nothing, either. Use it as another monitoring source, to see what people are doing on this site. Sometimes Ebay members can make the most money selling junk and oddball stuff, rather than serious collectibles.

http://www.stampclubs.com/memphis/index.htm
Memphis, as a big city, has it's own stamp collectors club. It's now located at the White Station Branch Library and meets monthly on the first Thursday with auctions, philatelic programs and other events. Location of the library is 5094 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN. Meetings begin at 7:15 p.m. Membership is currently around 65 and they welcome new members of all ages. Anyone beginning in stamp collecting should join the group so as to have face-to-face input with other collectors. Any hobby needs feeding and contact with other real people can inspire, instruct and also give great support. I have included the email address of one member for information requests, a Calvin Allen, but click on "Members" to get some more: calallen@shentel.net
Ron Williams
P.O. Box 132
Brunswick, TN 38014