Collecting coins and stamps 

Of all the different items you can collect, coins and stamps are among the most popular. There are many reasons for this – they are familiar objects that we all use regularly (although perhaps less so in the case of postage stamps), and there is an almost endless variety of designs to collect. They range from very common (and therefore affordable and accessible) to extremely rare, so you can match the scale and focus of your collection to your budget. 

Telling stories 

In addition to ‘ordinary’ stamps and coins, many countries issue special editions that focus on, for example, famous people, landmarks or anniversaries. This adds to the storytelling potential of your collection, and can turn it into a fascinating history or geography lesson. 

You can also trace important changes through collecting – when countries change their names, leaders or currencies, this is reflected in their stamps and coins. 

Getting started 

Much as you might want to, you’ll never be able to collect an example of every single coin or stamp. Instead, it makes much more sense to focus on a particular theme, country or period in history. In this way, your collection can reflect your other interests – you could collect stamps featuring birds or famous buildings, or coins from countries that no longer exist.

All that glitters 

Some coins are issued in special gold and silver editions – these have additional value as they are made from precious metals. Perhaps the best examples are gold South African Krugerrands, which are mostly bought as an investment. 

Condition is everything – or is it? 

As with many collectibles, condition plays a major role in deciding the value of coins and stamps. Because most of them were made to be used, they could well have various degrees of wear and tear. In some cases, this can add to their value – for example, franked first day covers (letters sent on the day of issue of a new set of stamps, and featuring the entire set), or stamps attached to a letter of particular importance. 

Then there is the option to collect mint, uncirculated coins (known as proof sets) – these are released in strictly limited numbers and while they can technically be spent, they are intended to be collectibles. 

On of the most interesting aspects of coin and stamp collecting is the fact that ‘mistakes’ – like stamps printed with typos or coins where the design is offset to one side – can actually be more valuable than the correct version. That’s because these are usually destroyed right away, and so they are extremely rare. 

Join a community 

Because coins and stamps are such popular collectibles, you’ll find it easy to connect with people who share your passion (and who can help you build your collection). Whether you’re buying or selling, platforms like Bob Shop make it super-easy to find fellow collectors. 

As with any hobby, there are lots of specialist tools available to help you make the most of your collection, from stamp albums and hinges to loupes for examining and appreciating the finer details of each piece in your collection.  

Getting started 

Look for coins and stamps online, in antique shops, and even in less obvious places like charity stores. You can build up your collection one coin or stamp at a time, or get a head start by buying someone else’s collection.