Boscastle Supplies Learn

This is the first of several stamp and coin collecting articles Boscastle Supplies will publish over the next few months about all subjects relating to the buying and using of various stamp collecting and coin collecting supplies, accessories and albums.

We know it can be quite intimidating for a new stamp or coin collector to go into a store, or go to a show, and ask the busy dealer questions about some of the basics of collecting and how to properly use the equipment. And when faced with a huge selection or array of products to choose from the decision for the collector is made a lot harder.

In these articles we hope to unravel some of the mysteries of why you should use various supplies and accessories, and we’ll try and make the selection of which one to buy a little easier.

Our goal is to make the stamp and coin collecting hobby more accessible and enjoyable for juniors and beginners, to help collectors who are rediscovering the hobby later in age, and to remind more serious philatelists and numismatists about the basics.

Contents:

Stamp Collecting Tip #1 - Which Stamp Tongs Are Best For You?

Stamp tongs are an essential tool used by stamp collectors and philatelists around the world. “Stamp Tongs” is the name primarily used by stamp collectors in North America, while “stamp tweezers” is the preferred name used by stamp collectors in much of Europe, especially in the UK.

While stamp tongs are similar in shape to the domestic tweezers you might find in the bathroom for cosmetic or medical use, they are however very different in that they do not have sharp or serrated ends which can actually damage a stamp. Therefore household tweezers should not be used instead of stamp tongs as they often damage stamps.

The best stamp tongs are always made of metal, with plastic versions suitably available for children. They are generally made of two flat metal pieces, joined together at one end to create a spring action that allows the free ends to pinch together with a smooth surface to hold the stamp.

Many of the premium stamp tong brands have a thick nickel coating on them to prevent rusting and corrosion and will last a typical stamp collector a life time. Premium stamp tongs tend to be manufactured in Solingen, Germany and can come under many different brands ... more ...

To read more about this article click here - Which Stamp Tongs Are Best for You?

Coin Collecting Tip #1 - The Care and Preservation of Your Coin and Medal Collection 101 – The Basics

Traditionally, coins and medals have been made from three metals and their alloys: gold, silver and copper. The alloy component varies and can be summarized as: silver or copper in gold coins; copper in silver ones; and tin or zinc in copper coins. This last group is often referred to as "bronzes."

In recent years, additional metals such as iron, aluminum and copper-nickel alloys — have been used in coin and medal production.

It’s important to know the metallic content of your coins and medals because different types of metals and alloys will react differently in the atmosphere and with storage. As coins and medals become more popular to collect and as many are treasured family heirlooms, you need to ensure they can be looked after for many generations to come ... more ...

To read more about this article click here - How to Look After Your Coin and Medal Collection

Boscastle Supplies / DAVO Stamp Album Price List 2011/2012

This file contains a full listing of DAVO stamp albums their approximate availability and full retail pricing.

The DAVO stamp album prices on this Web site might be lower.

If you have any questions please contact us. Boscastle Supplies DAVO Pricing 2011/2012