What do I do with an old, valuable (?) stamp collection?

[KarenB]

I am not sure if this is too off topic to post on this board. If so, just PM me the information instead. I have never ventured over here, but someone suggested I give it a try. Maybe knowing that a few of the stamps deal with Disney will make it okay.

When I was very young, I would visit my aunt and we would work on our stamp collections. Mine of course was a starter set, but my aunt's was her's even when she was a little girl. Hers included stamps from the 1800's, many older mint condition stamps, complete sets, etc.

When she died I think I was around 10 (1970) I was given her stamp collection. I have kept it in a dry safe place all of these years. I always thought I would get it out again or possibly give it to my own children. Well, sadly it hasn't been touched. My teen DSs enjoy hearing the stories about my aunt and glancing through the collection, but no other interest has been shown.

I am now wondering if maybe the time has come to sell it. DSs are soon entering college and I would possibly use the money for their education, something my aunt never had.

The big question is "How do I find someone I can trust to give me an asking price?" There are 1000s of stamps on 100s of pages. I could never possibly photograph each page....or is this is must? I live in a very small town. The only resources I can think of would be an auctioneering company.

Can anyone make any suggestions as to my first step in finding the value of this collection?

Thanks,
Karen

 

[~Kathie]

Is there a stamp store that does appraisal or someone that does it for insurance purposes.

I found this on google. I think the article contains the advice you are looking for.

Estate Advice

Good luck.

 

[bekeating]

I would suggest finding a stamp dealer who can evaluate your collection. I know in my area there are a couple of dealers who will purchase some collections and put others up for auction. A good dealer will give you an estimate for the value and a suggestion on the best way to sell. As to how to find a good dealer, hit the yellow pages of a larger city and start calling. I would suggest, if possible, bringing your collection to a couple of dealers to get a better feel for value. Good luck in selling. I have collected stamps for many years - my kids at this point have no interest either, but I am hoping that will change at some point.

Bonnie