Wednesday, March 22, 2023

Added to my collection in March 2023

This will just be a post with all the stamps that I added to my collections in March  2023


March 5

German States Hamburg 1859


German States Hamburg 1859 no 2

Number 2 in both Scott and Michel catalogs


March 12

1956 Northern Countries common issues

1956 Northern Countries issues

Scott lists these as Northern  instead of Nordic. Always nice to see them all together


1969 Northern Countries common issues

1969 Northern Countries issues


Always nice to see them all together


March 21st

Germany 1949 Bizone MiNr Block 1a

Germany 1949 Bizone MiNr Block 1a

Scott number 664a

I always loved this bloc


Austria 1948 Kunstlerhaus semi-postals

Austria 1948 MiNr 878_884

Scott B245/B251, Michel 878/884

Kunstlerhaus, home of the leading Austrian Artist Association. 80th Anniversary



Switzerland 1960 Pro Patria Block 17

Switzerland 1960 Pro Patria Block 17

Scott B297, Michel block 17


Slovenia 1993 Europa CEPT contemporary art

Slovenia 1993 Europa CEPT contemporary art

Adding this to my CEPT collection


Modern-ish German mint stamps

Germany modern


Tuesday, February 28, 2023

ChatGPT write a blog post describing why philately is the best hobby

 

ChatGPT write a blog post describing why philately is the best hobby

I decided to ask ChatGPT to write a blog post describing why philately is the best hobby 


Here is the answer:

Philately, the hobby of collecting stamps, has been enjoyed by people of all ages for over a century. It is a unique hobby that offers countless benefits, including being an excellent stress reliever. In this blog post, we will explore why philately is the best hobby and how it can help reduce stress.


Firstly, philately is an exciting and challenging hobby that offers endless opportunities for learning and exploration. Collectors can focus on a particular country, time period, or theme, making it an excellent way to learn about history, geography, culture, and politics. Collectors can also appreciate the artistry and design of stamps, which often feature unique and intricate illustrations, photographs, and typography.


In addition to being an enjoyable and educational pastime, philately has many practical benefits. Collectors can build valuable collections that can appreciate in value over time, making it a potential source of income. Stamps are also relatively inexpensive, making it an accessible hobby for people of all income levels. Furthermore, philately is a social hobby that can connect collectors from around the world, building friendships and networks based on shared interests.


Perhaps most importantly, philately is an excellent stress reliever. Engaging in a hobby is a great way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Philately provides an escape from daily stressors by allowing collectors to focus on their collections, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. It also promotes mindfulness, as collectors must pay attention to details and focus on the present moment to appreciate and organize their collections.


Moreover, the repetitive and organized nature of philately can be soothing for those who enjoy structure and routine. Collectors can spend hours organizing and categorizing their stamps, which can provide a sense of accomplishment and control over their lives. Additionally, the act of physically handling stamps can be calming, as it provides a tactile and sensory experience that can be therapeutic.


In conclusion, philately is a versatile and fulfilling hobby that offers numerous benefits, including being an excellent stress reliever. It promotes learning, creativity, and mindfulness while providing a sense of accomplishment and connection to others. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, philately is an engaging and rewarding hobby that can help improve your overall wellbeing.


What do you think?

Friday, February 03, 2023

Added to my collection in February 2023

This will just be a post with all the stamps that I added to my collections in February 2023



February 1st

Michel Germany 1945 and later special catalog, Austria Special catalog

Michel Germany 1945 and later special catalog, Austria Special catalog

These are not stamps of course...

Ordered these in December but they have been stuck in custom since December 11th. got a refund and reordered, they finally arrived

Just looking at this one page of Austria overprint faults.....

Austria surcharge faults

I have a lot of checking to do.. just the 5 Heller stamps has 32 different overprint faults


February 3rd

Slovenia and Croatia S.H.S stamps

Lots of variety here with paper, colors perforations etc etc



Slovenia SHS 1919 3L19 imperforated in between

Slovenia SHS 1919 3L19 imperforated in between

Scott 3L19 imperforated in between


Slovenia SHS Postage Due serrate roulette blind perforation

Slovenia SHS Postage Due serrated roulette blind perforation

Scott SLJ30 serrate roulette blind perforation


Slovenia SHS 1920 Newspaper stamps surcharged with gum on stamps

Slovenia SHS Newspaper stamps surcharged with gum on stamps

Scott  3LP14, Ljubljana print, lithography, gum on both sides.
You can't really tell from this image.. but if you hold the stamps and move them towards the light, you can see it has gum on the side where the surcharge is


Slovenia SHS and Croatia SHS on postal pieces

Croatia SHS on postal pieces

Slovenia SHS on postal pieces

A few used pieces, belowis also a video of these...



February 12th


Netherlands 1921 Goudse glazen

Netherlands 1921 Goudse glazen

NVPH catalog 238/239

Notice the old spelling goudsche...


Netherlands 1956 Europa CEPT


The first Europa CEPT stamps issued


Europa CEPT several years

Europa CEPT several years

Ok, Ok, I went a little crazy getting all these on the same day  :-)


Europa CEPT 2000


Europa CEPT 2000

Europa CEPT 2000

Europa CEPT 2000

Europa CEPT 2000

Europa CEPT 2000

Europa CEPT 2000


Almost complete... missing just one stamp I think plus the unrecognized Bosnian Serb and Croat issues


February 28

Saxony 1855 King John I

Saxony 1855

German state Saxony 1855. Scott catalog 10, 11


Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Having some fun with Open AI ChatGPT and asking it some philately and stamp collecting related questions

explain in Shakespearean prose why philately is the best hobby

 

ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence tool that provides a conversational interface that allows you to ask questions in natural language. The system then responds with an answer within seconds. ChatGPT was launched in November 2022 and reached 1 million users only 5 days after its initial launch.


I decided to take it for a spin and ask a few questions


Explain in Shakespearean prose why philately is the best hobby

Oh fair and noble pastime, how dost thou grace the idle hours of man! 

Thy name, dear Philately, doth bring to mind images of quaint and ancient stamps, each bearing the visage of kings and queens long since passed. 

Thy pursuit doth require both keen wit and patient diligence, for the collector must needs seek out each rare and precious specimen with all the fervor of a hunter in pursuit of his quarry. 

And when at last the coveted item is obtained, the collector doth experience a sense of triumph and satisfaction that rivals even the greatest victories of yore. 

Truly, Philately is the very embodiment of the virtues of industry and perseverance, and is thus deserving of the title "best hobby."


That was pretty awesome  :-)


What is the rarest stamp in the world

The rarest stamp in the world is considered to be the British Guiana 1c magenta, which was issued in 1856. Only one example of the stamp is known to exist, and it has been sold at auction for as much as $9.5 million.


Pretty standard answer


Who has the most extensive stamp collection in the world

It is difficult to determine who currently holds the title for having the most extensive stamp collection in the world as collections and their ownership can change over time. However, some of the most famous and extensive stamp collections in history include those of King George V of the United Kingdom, the du Pont family in the United States, and the Royal Philatelic Collection of the British Royal Family.


I am surprised it didn't mention Philipp von Ferrary, his collection included the unique Treskilling Yellow of Sweden and the 1856 one-cent "Black on Magenta" of British Guiana.


What are the  most popular topical collection ideas for stamp collecting

Some popular topical areas for stamp collecting include:

  • stamps featuring animals or plants
  • stamps depicting famous people or historical figures
  • stamps related to a particular country or region
  • stamps issued for a specific event or celebration
  • stamps featuring transportation themes (such as trains, ships, or airplanes)
  • stamps with a specific theme such as space, sports, music, movies, etc.
  • stamps from a certain era or historical period.
  • stamps with certain design elements such as se-tenant, booklet panes, etc.

It's worth noting that people collects stamps for many reasons, and what's popular can vary widely depending on the collector's personal interests and collecting goals.


Another standard answer you would expect


What is the best way to remove hinges from stamps?

There are a few methods for removing hinges from stamps, but one of the most effective is to use a hinge pick. A hinge pick is a small tool with a pointed end that is used to gently lift the hinge off of the stamp. You can also use tweezers or a small screwdriver to remove the hinges, but be careful not to damage the stamp. Additionally, some people recommend using water or a small amount of stamp hinge remover to soften the hinges before trying to remove them.


What are some of the best stamp catalogs and why?

Some of the most highly regarded stamp catalogs include the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth and British Empire Catalogue, and the Michel Europa-Katalog. These catalogs are considered to be some of the best because they are comprehensive, regularly updated, and widely used by stamp collectors and dealers. The Scott catalog is known for its detailed listings and accurate valuations of stamps from the United States and other countries. The Stanley Gibbons catalog is considered the standard for stamps from the British Commonwealth, and the Michel catalog is a popular choice for stamps from Europe.


For me of course Michel is number 1  :-)


What is the difference between philately and stamp collecting

Philately is the study of stamps and postal history, while stamp collecting is the hobby of collecting stamps. In other words, stamp collecting is a subset of philately. Philatelists study stamps not just for their monetary value, but also for their historical and cultural significance. They may also collect other postal-related items such as postmarks, postal stationery, and covers (envelopes or postcards that have been used and have stamps affixed to them).

what is the difference between philately and stamp collecting



What is the difference between lithography and letterpress print

Lithography and letterpress printing are two different techniques used to print text and images on paper.

Lithography is a printing process that uses a flat surface, such as a metal plate or a stone, and a chemical process to transfer an image onto paper. The image is drawn or painted onto the plate with a greasy substance, such as a wax crayon or ink, and then the plate is washed with a water-based solution. The greasy image repels the water and attracts the ink, which is then transferred onto the paper. This method is often used to print large runs of high-quality images and text.

Letterpress printing, on the other hand, uses raised type or blocks to create an impression on paper. The type or blocks are pressed into the paper, leaving an indented image or text. This method is often used for printing small runs of text, such as books and invitations, and is considered a more traditional method of printing.


What are some of the most desirable stamps a collector should have in the collection

Some of the most desirable stamps for collectors include:


  1. The Penny Black: the world's first adhesive postage stamp, issued by the United Kingdom in 1840.
  2. The Inverted Jenny: a United States stamp from 1918 featuring an upside-down image of an airplane.
  3. The Treskilling Yellow: a Swedish stamp from 1855 that is considered one of the rarest in the world.
  4. The Mauritius "Post Office" stamps: a set of stamps issued on the island of Mauritius in 1847, considered to be one of the first postage stamp issues in the world.
  5. The Chinese "Red Revenues": a set of stamps issued by China in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
  6. The British Guiana 1c magenta: the world’s rarest stamp, it was printed in 1856 in very limited quantities and only one specimen is known to exist.


These are just a few examples, and the value and desirability of stamps can vary greatly depending on factors such as rarity, condition, and historical significance.


What are some different kind of perforation in philately

There are several different types of perforation in philately, including:

  • Line perforation: This is the most common type of perforation, where the holes are arranged in straight lines around the stamp.
  • Comb perforation: This type of perforation is similar to line perforation, but the holes are arranged in a comb-like pattern.
  • Grid perforation: This type of perforation is similar to line perforation, but the holes are arranged in a grid pattern.
  • Roulette perforation: This type of perforation is characterized by a series of parallel lines that are cut into the stamp paper instead of holes being punched out.
  • Serpentine perforation: This type of perforation is characterized by a series of wavy lines.
  • Spiral perforation: This type of perforation is characterized by a series of spiral-shaped holes around the stamp.
  • Double perforation: This type of perforation is characterized by two sets of perforations, one inside the other.
  • Imperforate: This type of stamps have no perforation and have to be cut or separated by hand

The type of perforation used on a stamp can be used to help identify and authenticate the stamp.



There you have it some fun with ChatGPT 

Sunday, January 01, 2023

Added to my collection in January 2023

 This will just be a post with all the stamps that I added to my collections in January 2023


January 1st

Netherlands 1852 King William III 5 cent pair

Netherlands 1852 King William III 5 cent pair NVPH 1
 

The first stamps issued in the the Netherlands in 1852. A nice pair. There are 6 different plates of this stamp.. once I figure out which plate this is, I will add it here


Netherlands 1907 Postage Due set 

Netherlands 1907 Postage Due set M. A. de Ruyter

Overprints on the M. A. de Ruyter set of 1907. There are 2 types of the fraction stamps


Netherlands Juliana and Number stamps from Booklets

Netherlands Juliana and Number stamps from Booklets

These stamps are from several booklets


January 23

Switzerland 1923 airmail stamps

Switzerland 1923 airmail stamps  Michel number 179-184

Michel number 179/184. I think these are real beauties....


Europa CEPT various years

Europa CEPT various years


These will go towards completing my Europa CEPT collection from 1956-2000, still have a long way to go......


Austria 30  year anniversary of Carinthian plebiscite

Austria 30  year anniversary of Carinthian plebiscite.jpg

1950 Michel numbers 952/954, Scott number B269/B271


Switzerland 1915/1921 Tell tĂȘte-bĂȘche pairs

Switzerland Tell tĂȘte-bĂȘche pairs

Michel 138 type II, 158, 160a 

I love tĂȘte-bĂȘche pairs... of course the real nice ones to have are the French Ceres and Napoleon ones


Netherlands 1952 Stamp Centenary of Dutch Postage 

Netherlands 1952 Stamp Centenary of Dutch Postage

Scott# 336-39 NVPH 592/595

There are 2 sets with identical stamps but in different colors. There were only 205,700 sets issued of the 4 pictured here. The ones in different colors were issued by the millions... 242 million for the 2 cent stamp (in violet color instead of brown)


Netherlands 1872 King William III 2.5 Guilders

Netherlands 1872 King William III 2.5 Guilders


NVPH number 29, Scott number 33. This is the first 2 color stamps issued in the Netherlands


Netherlands 1893 Princess Wilhelmina 2.5 Guilders

Netherlands 1893 Princess Wilhelmina 2.5 Guilders

NVPH number 48, Scott number 53


And here they are side by side, father and daughter  :-)

Netherlands 1893 Princess Wilhelmina, Netherlands 1872 King William III 2.5 Guilders


Netherlands 1920 Queen Wilhelmina 10 guilders surcharged with 250 cents

Netherlands Wilhelmina 10 guilders 1920 surcharged with 250 cents


NVPH number 105, Scott number 105... look at that.... the same catalog number


Friday, December 09, 2022

Added to my collection December 2022

This will just be a post with all the stamps that I added to my collections in December 2022


December 7th

A whole bunch of stamps from the Netherlands

Collection of MNH stamps from the Netherlands

I have a fair number of those already used.. missing a few MNH as well as missing them completely


Netherlands 1973 ships

I just want to call out this beautiful set

Netherlands Ships Year 1973 NVPH 1026/1029

Netherlands Ships Year 1973 NVPH catalog numbers 1026/1029


December 22nd

Netherlands 1875 William III to Heidelberg cover

Netherlands 1875 William III to Heidelberg cover front

Netherlands 1875 William III to Heidelberg backfron

The envelope is smaller than I expected


Switzerland 1854 Strubel Type Sitting Helvetia

Switzerland 1854 Strubel Type Sitting Helvetia


I love these stamps... however there are up to 7 different printings, a few different types of papers, and also different colored threads.  I will just assume these are the less expensive Bern printing ones



Tuesday, November 08, 2022

Added to my collection November 2022

 This will just be a post with all the stamps that I added to my collections in November 2022



November 7th

Cover from Belgium....

Belgium cover with stamps in it


Got a bunch of stamps in this envelope (see for stamps further below)


Germany booklet pane Michel H-BI 29A

Germany booklet pane Michel H-BI 29A

I love the Germania series that were issued before WW I.


Liechtenstein Europa CEPT 1960 MiNr 398

Liechtenstein Europa CEPT 1960 MiNr 398

Just an addition to my Europa CEPT collection. Wondering why they didn't do a common design stamp here?


Switzerland 1955 Stamp Exhibition Lausanne Souvenir Sheet 

Switzerland 1955 Stamp Exhibition Lausanne Souvenir Sheet Michel Block 15, Scott 352a .jpeg

Michel Block 15, Scott 352a. This sheet does not exist perforated.


Netherlands bunch of MNH stamps from the 70s - 90s

Netherlands bunch of MNH stamps from the 70s - 90s

I have most of these.. but was missing about 10 or so in my collection, the rest I will sell or trade. Some of these might end up in some of my thematic collections as well (looking at the stamp on stamp ones)



November 8th

Netherlands 1913 King William II

Netherlands NVPH 99 1913.jpg

NVPH catalog number 99. Just missing the 10 Guilder one now from this set


Europa CEPT blocks and mini sheets

Europa Cept blocks and sheets


Just a few Europa CEPT issues to be added to my collection. Stamps from Yugoslavia, Finland, Turkey and Turkish Cyprus





Netherlands International Cour de Justice set

Netherlands International Cour de Justice set

Issued in 1989-1994, NVPH catalog number 44/58



November 17th

Got 3 stamp lots in the mail today

3 envelopes of stamps


That is a good amount of stamps on both of those envelopes...


Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers horizontally and vertically double perforations

Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers horizontally and vertically double perforations

I always loved these chain breakers stamps.....


Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers perforation error

Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers perforation error


Danzig Cork cancellations

Danzig some cork cancellations

Got a bunch of these, this is the first time I have seen this cancellation on Danzig stamps. If you searchon Ebay for korkstempel, you will find more examples...


Netherlands 1941 vliegende duif (flying dove) combinations

Netherlands 1941 vliegende duif (flying dove) combinations



NVPH catalog numbers 379a/379d


Switzerland 1939 National exposition all 3 languages

Switzerland 1939 National exposition all 3 languages Michel catalog number 344/355. Scott catalog number 256/267

Tree and crossbow, nice clean design, visually very pleasing

Michel catalog number 344/355. Scott catalog number 256/267



November 30th

Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers partially imperforated stamps

Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers partially imperforated stamps




Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers  double horizontal perforation

Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers  double horizontal perforation






Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers  double vertical perforation

Slovenia SHS 1919 Chain breakers  double vertical perforation





Slovenia SHS 1920 King Peter I Imperforated

Slovenia SHS 1920 King Peter I Imperforated