Stamp collecting is a fun and informative way to learn more about a country’s historical events, famous people, culture and geography. In Tucson, Arizona, stamp collecting is more than just a hobby for a group of passionate enthusiasts. Here, stamp collectors have many resources that will help them purchase stamps for their collections, learn more about stamp collecting, and connect with other stamp collectors.
To start collecting Tucson stamps
1 – Join the Arizona Philatelic Rangers, Tucson Stamp Club, or – if you’re interested in stamps from Mexico – Mexico-Elmhurst Philatelic Society International. To find out more about a club near you, check out the Arizona Federation of Stamp Clubs.
2 – Visit the Postal History Foundation Library at 920 North First Avenue.
3 – Shop at American Stamp & Coin Co. At 7225 Oracle Road, Ste. 102.
4 – Browse websites like Craigslist or Ebay. Be careful and do your research before buying. Ask for clear photos and detailed information.
Stamp collecting tools
Getting started with stamp collecting is relatively inexpensive. You will need the following tools to get started:
1 – Stamps!
2 – sealing forceps;
3 – Catalogs and price guides. Check these out at your local library. There are also online price guides for subscription. Look into a stamp management software that will help you keep track of the value of your collection.
4 – magnifying glass.
5 – perforation gauge;
6 – Watermark fluid and tray (optional)
7 – Albums. Make sure you get acid-free pages. Regular albums will leak color from your stamps.
8 – glass envelopes. Use to store and organize extra stamps that you don’t want fitted to the album.
9 – stamp hinges; (Many collectors are moving away from stamp hinges and choosing to use stamp mounts instead.)
10 – Stamp holders. Slide the stamp into these protective covers, then mount them to the album.
Take care of your stamps
The Tucson Stamp Collection is the perfect location to maintain a stamp collection. Hot, dry weather helps preserve the stamps and keeps moisture out of the stamps. However, it is a good idea to store your stamps above ground level and secure your collection. To insure your group, you will need to get an appraisal from an insurance company. There may be a fee.
Postal History Foundation Library
Tucson’s philatelic collection is a great resource in the Postal History Foundation’s library. The library offers the following services.
1 – Sale of collectible stamps and other philatelic items such as albums, hinges and page protectors.
2 – This is the only place that sells all currently issued postage stamps. Normally, you must order these stamps directly from the post office.
3 – A library of all historical documents of the Southwest Post Office, including stamps.
4 – Educational services for young people, classes, speakers’ desk and special educational materials designed for schools.
5 – A turn-of-the-century replica from a United States Post Office.
