How to get your stamps - #4 Stamp Fairs

It's been a while since I looked at the different ways you can get your stamps. I've previously written about approvals, Kidstamps (f you're a young person!) and philatelic bureaux. This week I'm taking a look at stamps fairs.

I went to a stamp fait in Liverpool on Saturday. This is a small stamp fair held every two months.

I was very pleased to pick up these football stamps from 1966 (pictured). I already had the set but these were nice blocks in mint condition and a really good find.

I also got some other things, including these war letters with censors' stamps, which I will write about another time.

What is so good about stamps fairs?

a) You get to see your stamps up close, rather than online, so you know exactly what you're getting,

b) There are many dealers there, and there is usually a lot of variety all in one place. Whether you're looking for new issues or historic pieces, there will be something you're interested in. c) People are on hand to help you find what you are looking for. My sister was at the same stamp fair and she was looking for stamps with pictures of gemstones. A couple of the dealers managed to find her some interesting items. d) Perhaps the best thing is that dealers are often happy to do deals with you! You can't do that with philatelic bureaux!

e) You will find things that you probably won't find online. Do you like hunting for hidden gems or something different? Then stamp fairs are for you.

f) You can talk with people who are really knowledgeable about philately - both the dealers and other collectors.

g) Stamp fairs are really hands-on, sociable events and there is nothing quite like them.

I go to a few stamp fairs a year and they are probably my favourite place to buy stamps. They're really good if you're not necessarily looking for a specific thing but just to find some interesting new additions for your collection. However, the best thing has to be the way you feel connected with other people who have the same interest.