How do I sell a stamp collection?
Assess the Collection First
Before selling, get a general idea of what you have. Look for complete sets, older stamps (pre-1920), and anything with a certificate of authenticity. Most common stamps from the 1930s onward are worth little, often sold in bulk.
You can check recent sold prices on eBay or stamp dealer websites. For a rough estimate, a local stamp club or dealer may offer a free appraisal. If the collection seems valuable, consider a professional appraisal from a recognized expert.
- Separate mint from used stamps.
- Look for rare cancellations or errors.
- Check for certificates or expert markings.
- Don't clean or repair stamps—it can reduce value.
Choose a Selling Method
For a low-value collection (under a few hundred dollars), selling to a local dealer is quick but you'll get maybe 20-50% of retail value. Online marketplaces like eBay or HipStamp let you set your own price but require time and shipping.
For a high-value collection (thousands of dollars), consigning to a specialized stamp auction house often yields the best price, though you'll pay seller's fees. Auction houses typically charge 10-20% commission plus other fees. Some also charge for photography and insurance.
If you want to avoid fees, you can sell directly to a collector through a stamp club or online forum. But this takes longer and you may need to negotiate.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all old stamps are valuable—most are common and worth only pennies.
- Selling to the first dealer without getting multiple offers or an appraisal.
- Throwing away stamps that look damaged but might still have value to specialists.
