Old stamps can be effectively used for their original purpose as valid postage, or they can be repurposed for enriching collections and various creative projects.
Using Old Stamps for Postage
Most vintage and older postage stamps are not self-adhesive like modern ones. Instead, they feature a gummed backing that becomes sticky when moistened. This traditional design means you need to activate the adhesive to use them for mailing letters or packages.
How to Adhere Old Stamps
There are several methods to activate the gum on the back of old stamps:
- Licking: The most traditional method involves briefly licking the back of the stamp to moisten and activate the gum.
- Moist Sponge or Cloth: For those who prefer an alternative to licking, a slightly damp sponge or cloth can be gently pressed against the back of the stamp to achieve the same effect.
- Glue Stick: A convenient and modern method is to apply a thin layer of a standard glue stick to the back of the stamp. This provides strong adhesion without needing moisture.
Validity and Combining Stamps
- Validity: Old stamps are generally valid for postage at their face value in the country where they were originally issued, provided they are in good condition (uncanceled and undamaged). This means a 3-cent stamp from 50 years ago is still worth 3 cents towards current postage.
- Combining Values: Since current postage rates are typically higher than the face value of many old stamps, you will often need to combine multiple stamps to meet the required amount. For example, if a letter costs 68 cents to mail and you have several 10-cent, 5-cent, and 3-cent stamps, you can apply a combination that adds up to 68 cents or more. Always check the current postage rates from your local postal service, such as the USPS website for rates within the United States.
Other Popular Uses for Old Stamps
Beyond mailing, old stamps possess a unique charm and historical value that makes them suitable for a variety of other applications.
1. Philately (Stamp Collecting)
Stamp collecting is a popular hobby enjoyed by millions worldwide. Old stamps are highly prized by collectors for their:
- Historical Significance: They offer a glimpse into past eras, commemorating events, figures, and cultural milestones.
- Artistic Design: Stamps are often miniature works of art, featuring intricate designs, diverse themes, and unique engraving techniques.
- Rarity and Value: Certain old stamps can be rare and valuable, making their discovery and acquisition an exciting pursuit.
Tips for Collectors:
- Handle stamps with specialized tongs to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your fingers.
- Store stamps in acid-free albums or stock books to preserve their condition.
- Join a philatelic society, like the American Philatelic Society, to connect with other enthusiasts and learn more.
2. Crafts and Art Projects
The varied imagery, colors, and historical aesthetic of old stamps make them excellent material for creative endeavors. They add a unique, vintage touch to many projects.
- Collages: Create intricate visual art pieces by arranging and gluing stamps onto paper, canvas, or other surfaces.
- Greeting Cards and Invitations: Embellish handmade cards, scrapbooks, or journal pages with old stamps for a distinctive, personalized look.
- Decoupage: Apply stamps to decorate furniture, boxes, picture frames, or other household items, sealing them with a clear finish.
- Jewelry: Some artisans encapsulate stamps in resin to craft unique pendants, earrings, or cufflinks.
- Gift Wrapping: Use stamps as a decorative element on gift packages for an elegant and thoughtful presentation.
Adhesion Comparison: Modern vs. Vintage Stamps
Understanding the difference in adhesion can help in using old stamps effectively.
| Feature | Modern Self-Adhesive Stamps | Vintage Gummed Stamps |
|---|---|---|
| Adhesion Method | Peel and stick | Requires moisture to activate gum |
| Backing | Release liner (e.g., waxed paper) | Plain paper with dry gum |
| Ease of Use | Very high | Moderate, requires activation |
| Collectibility | Can be harder to remove cleanly from envelopes | Often designed to be soaked off for collecting |
