How To Sell Your Stamp Collection

Published on: 10th April 2020

Whether it has been lovingly compiled over years, or inherited, there are many ways to sell your stamp collection for the best possible price. We always enjoy discovering rare stamps or unusual collections, and with an active market in the UK, and an increasing number of collectors around the world, especially in Asia, surprise discoveries still do come to light.

Who can you trust?

Time spent doing some research will pay off. The Philatelic Traders Society (PTS) is the best source of information, and can help you locate local high street stamp shops where you could start your enquiries and get a free expert valuation.

Stampex is a free annual event taking place in Islington, London, where you can see international dealers as well as smaller auction houses and dealers. You may be able to get a valuation of your collection there, but you will certainly be able to talk to experts and get some insight into the fascinating world of stamps.

Ways to sell your stamps

Philatelic Traders Society

Selling to a member of this organisation means it will be bought by a genuine enthusiast, and if anything goes wrong with the sale, you will have recourse through the society, which has a code of ethics. They can give you information about dealers and collectors in your area, but you are advised to get more than one quote.

Using a stamp dealer

It is vital to understand that dealers are often also collectors in search of a bargain. A reputable dealer will tell you the value of your collection, and whether to sell items singly or as a collection, and they may offer to buy from you direct. If its only a valuation you want, they may charge a fee.

Stamp fairs

Up and down the country, dealers and enthusiasts meet regularly at stamp fairs. If you are thinking of making sale, it is important you proceed with caution, and get alternative valuations.

Stamp Magazine

The classified advertising section of this reputable magazine is a way to find dealers and collectors offering a valuation service. They will have different conditions, such as first refusal to purchase, so again it is worth checking out a few before deciding to use them.

Selling stamps on eBay

There are pros and cons about using eBay, but it does offer a worldwide market. With good research and a clear knowledge of what your stamps are worth, you should be able to write a detailed description that will encourage buyers. Getting the right price is difficult when buyers cannot inspect a collection. You can list items with a reserve price, but this incurs extra charges which you need to factor into your decision

Donating stamps to a charity

Most charity shops on the high street will gladly accept stamp collections as a charitable donation. They will be valued by their central organisation or passed to a local auction house to raise funds. If the collection is inherited, and the estate is above the inheritance tax threshold, donating it will make its value exempt, and could reduce inheritance tax

Selling stamps at auction

An auction house can offer the most reassuring way of selling your stamps. You will receive sound advice about selling a complete collection or individual items, and valuations based on years of experience and knowledge. You will benefit from unrivaled exposure to an extensive database of dealers and collectors, with live internet and phone bidding adding to the potential of an auction, as its experts are working for you to realise top prices.

Different houses will charge fees and commissions which reflect their experience and knowledge of specialist buyers, usually including insurance, valuation, lotting and transport. The auction house will also take care of all aspects of the sale to make it a simple process.

Selling stamps by Private Treaty Sale

If you want to avoid uncertainty, selling directly to the auction house through a Private Treaty Sale can yield good results. Based on a fair and accurate valuation, you will know exactly what you will receive without incurring charges or fees. You accept an offer, sign an instruction and receive a cheque.

Consider carefully before selling

With so many ways to sell stamp collections, it is essential to consider carefully before selling what might be a valuable asset. As stamps are issued in such huge numbers, most are worth very little, but the best way to make the right decision is to get professional advice and several valuations. If you are looking for professional advice then one of our friendly team would be happy to talk you through your options. Have a look at our guide to selling stamps at auction and get in touch if you would like to speak to us.

Good luck !