The World Encyclopedia Of Stamps & Stamp Collecting : The Ultimate Illustrated Reference To Over 3000 Of The World's Best Stamps, And A Professional Guide To Starting And Perfecting A Spectacular Collection

This is the ultimate guide to getting the most out of the world's most
popular hobby, with countless examples of rare, vivid and historical stamps
spanning almost two centuries, plus advice on price and guidance about
acquisition.An in-depth introduction traces the evolution of the postal
services, from the Roman mail coaches rushing to the forefront of fighting
to souvenir Zeppelin issues, and the advent of rail, boat and air as
methods of mass delivery.The book dissects the modern-day adhesive stamp,
to help collectors understand the value of their own collection and the
importance of preserving stamps. Different methods of collecting, and the
practical aspects of building and maintaining a collection, are covered in
detail.There are also step-by-step instructions on how to retain the
quality of stamps while mounting them for display, and guidance on entering
the stamp buyer's marketplace, whether attending exhibitions and stamp
fairs, or using an on-line auction site.A global directory of stamps from
more than 200 countries will inspire readers to collect their own. Read
some of the fascinating stories behind the world's most sought-after
stamps, from the famous commemoratives of American presidents to issues
from some of the most remotest post offices in the world.Stamps trace the
character and history of the country from which they originate, and this
encyclopedic visual directory, with 3000 images, is a valuable record of
some of the most interesting, beautiful and bizarre examples ever created.A
comprehensive directory of the world's greatest stamps, including
photographs of over 3000 stamps from more than 200 countriesAn expert guide
to understanding and acquiring wonderful stamps, by one of the world's
foremost collectorsA thorough introduction to the evolution of the adhesive
stamp and other philatelic material allows the beginner or experienced
enthusiast to understand both the history and value of their collectionThe
stories behind the flaws, incidents and propaganda that created some of the
world's most collectable stampsDifferent methods of collecting stamps are
explained, with tips on how to research, organize and extend a collection
through contact with the stamp buyer's marketStep-by-step instructions on
mounting, displaying and preserving stamps, with examples of useful tools
and accessories