Philately - The Most Interesting Hobby

Philately or Stamp Collecting is one of the world's oldest hobbies and the most popular one.As a nurturing hobby, it provides us with a huge insight into the history, flora, fauna and Current affairs of a Country.

More on philately can be found on the following Link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philately

Stanley Gibbons is the authority in cataloging all the major postage stamps issued till date in the world and is a excellent place to start learning on the stamps of various countries.

In today's world if one wants to inculcate the habit of collecting stamps, there are many avenues to explore. Internet, a blessing in disguise has given lots of choice for Philatelist of all levels (be it an Amateur or Professional).

I personally have used the web to buy the stamps of all kinds, mostly from the source itself i.e.
Postal Department of the country. I felt that Singapore Post and US Postal Service site are one of the best Sites to shop online.Many other Countries postal departments also have the option of buying online but I am yet to explore them.

We should be always careful in choosing the seller as there are counterfeiters here too. Therefore buying from the source itself is one of the best and safest options. As Unmarked Stamps are called Mints due to their monetary Value like that of a currency.

Honestly speaking Indian stamps are one of the most diversified in the world, as it possesses rich history, culture, flora and fauna. it also one of the most sought after in the world. If you want an uninterrupted supply of all the Current stamps with First Day Covers Etc, you can open a Philately Deposit Account with your nearest General or Head Post Office. More info can be found at http://indiapost.gov.in/Philately.html

If you have somebody already into stamp collecting around, then nothing betters it. Most of the professional philatelist started at a small level. A self taught Hobby, it doesn't not require much learning or supervision. A interesting choice altogether.

So what are you waiting for??? Start Collecting Now !!!