Downsizing Challenge: What to Do With an Old Stamp Collection

When downsizing, it’s not unusual to uncover an old stamp collection tucked away in a closet, desk, or attic. These collections often belonged to a parent or grandparent and can bring back wonderful memories, but they aren’t necessarily worth a lot of money.

The reality is that most old stamp collections have limited value beyond the sentimental. The market is flooded with inventory and there are few buyers. 

Stamps were collected by millions of people, and common stamps from the 20th century are often readily available. The condition of the stamps, how they were stored, and whether the collection contains anything genuinely rare all make a difference. A large, well-ordered, and graded collection is different, and may warrant evaluation by a trusted stamp collector or store.

While trying to find a home for bits and pieces of stamp collections (instead of throwing them out), I connected with Scott Zimmerman of the Putnam County Stamp Club. An avid collector and all-around stamp enthusiast, Scott also leads a stamp collecting club with Girl Scout Troop 4542 in Greencastle, IN. The girls are learning how to research stamps to find out if they are rare and valuable, or just unusual. (Spoiler alert: Even some recent ones they thought might have value sold for very little money.)

Beyond potential value, stamps also provide educational opportunities. “Foreign stamps use different languages and even different alphabets,” said Zimmerman. “The scouts learn to recognize different symbols and letters from different countries.” The scouts also use stamps in craft projects such as bookmarks, birdhouses and picture frames.

With so little value in stamps these days – especially small lots of old collections – it’s great to find an outlet to help the younger generation learn about stamps and the wider world.