Are you a stamp collector looking for ways to add to your collection? Or maybe you’re new to the hobby and are wondering how to get started. Either way, attending a stamp auction can be a great way to find new and interesting items for your collection. Below I will cover where to find an event, how they work, and what to expect. I will also share my experience with the stamp auctions near me.
Map of Stamp Auctions Near Me
For “Stamp Auctions Near Me” or “Philatelic Auctions Near Me”, see the map below…
What is a Stamp Auction?
A stamp auction is a public sale of postage stamps and other philatelic items. Stamp auctions are held regularly by both specialized auction houses and generalist auctioneers. The main purpose of a stamp auction is to sell collectible postage stamps and other related items to the highest bidder.
Auctions are also held for the benefit of charities, with the proceeds going to the chosen cause. Many stamp auctions are held online, with bidders participating from all over the world.
Fun Fact About Philately at Auction…
The world’s first postage stamp, known as the Penny Black, will go on sale at Auction. It was originally worth only one penny, but it could sell for up to $8.25 million at a sale. The UK stamp was created in 1840 and produced approximately 68 million copies. More info here.
How do the Stamp Auctions Near Me Work?
A typical stamp auction will last for several days, with each day featuring a different section of items up for sale. These can be independent events or included as special events at a stamp show.
Items are typically grouped by theme, country of origin, or other factors.
Before the auction begins, interested bidders will receive a catalog of all the items up for sale, along with estimates of what each item is expected to sell for. At live public auctions there is an inspection period in which interested bidders can inspect the stamps to better assess the quality and value.
During the auction, bidders submit their bids in increments, with the auctioneer accepting the highest bid and then moving on to the next item.
At the end of the auction, successful bidders will be invoiced for their purchases, and they will have a set period to pay.
What Makes a Postage Stamp Valuable
Many factors can make a postage stamp valuable. The most common is the level of rarity, with some stamps being much rarer than others. Other considerations include condition, age, history, and popularity. Some stamps may be valuable due to errors or printing mistakes, while others may have ties to famous people or events.
What Types of Items are Sold at Stamp Auctions?
In addition to postage stamps, many other philatelic items are sold at stamp auctions. This can include first-day covers, postal stationery, postcards, and much more. Many auction houses also sell non-philatelic items, such as coins, currency, and vintage toys.
What to Know Before Attending a Stamp Auction
If you’re thinking of attending a stamp auction, there are a few things you should know in advance.
First, it’s important to do your research and familiarize yourself with the items that will be up for sale. You should also have a good idea of what you’re willing to pay for each item and if possible attend the inspection period.
It’s also a good idea to register in advance, as this will allow you to get a bidder number and access to the auction catalog. Registering on the day of an event can be risky due to long lines and you may miss the first items auctioned off.
Most importantly, have fun! Stamp auctions can be a great way to meet other collectors and find some truly unique items.
Tips for Winning at a Stamp Auction
If you’re looking to win at a stamp auction, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances.
First, it’s important to be familiar with the items up for sale and have a good idea of what you’re willing to pay. It’s also helpful to attend the inspection period so that you can assess the condition of each stamp. Write down your high and low bids pre-auction and then strictly commit to only bidding within that range.
It’s also a good idea to register in advance and get a bidder number. This will allow you to submit your bids quickly and avoid any confusion on the day of the auction. Come prepared with proof of identification and ability to pay.
You can also ask questions during the inspection period. If you have any questions or concerns get them answered before you start bidding.
How to Find Stamp Auctions Near Me
If you’re interested in attending stamp auctions near, there are a few ways to find one near you.
One option is to check the website of a specialized auction house that deals in philatelic items. Some auction houses specialize in stamp auctions, while others due one-off events.
Another option is to search for stamp auctions online using a general auction directory or searching for local auction houses in your area.
Finally, you can also ask fellow collectors, clubs, stores, or dealers if they know of any upcoming auctions. The community of stamp collectors is often a good source for auction info.
Pro Tip: One of the best ways to find stamp auctions near me is to use Google Events. This can help you find smaller local philatelic auctions. Attending smaller events can give you an advantage if you are an experienced collector and bidder. Check out Google Events: Stamp Auctions Near Me This Month.
Top 5 Largest Stamp Auctions in the US
- Spink Shreves Galleries – This auction house is based in New York City and specializes in philatelic auctions. They hold several large sales each year, with their Spring Sale typically being one of the largest.
- Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries – Another New York-based auctioneer, Robert A. Siegel specializes in stamps and covers of the United States. They hold several large public auctions each year, as well as numerous smaller sales.
- Heritage Auctions – Based in Dallas, Texas, Heritage Auctions is one of the largest auctioneers in the world. They offer a wide range of collectible items, including stamps, at their auctions.
- Christies – Christies is a world-famous auction house with locations all over the globe. They occasionally offer philatelic items at their various sales, with some truly amazing and rare items up for grabs.
- Kestenbaum & Company – Kestenbaum & Company is a New York-based auctioneer that specializes in Jewish and Holocaust-related memorabilia. They occasionally offer philatelic items, with their sale of the “Moses Elias Levy Collection” being one of the largest stamp auctions in recent years.
These are just a few of the many large stamp auctions held in the United States each year.
Stamp Auctions Near Me Conclusion
If you’re interested in attending a stamp auction, there are many options available. Do your research in advance and familiarize yourself with the items that will be up for sale. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy meeting other collectors! If you have a stamp collection to sell auctions are a great option, but there are alternatives for finding stamp collection buyers. That’s what I have learned from attending stamp auctions near me.