philatelia
Member 
Captain Jack - my best kiloware find ever!
Posts: 3,416
What I collect: Ireland, Japan, Scandy, USA, Venezuela, Vatican, Bermuda, Austria
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Post by philatelia on Oct 8, 2023 11:43:15 GMT
The fantastic thing about philately is there is so much to do, lots to learn and acres in which to grow.
Which areas would you most like to study more in depth or what skill do you most wish you could improve?
AND If you can recommend books or websites to help others meet their goals, please share them.
I’ll go first -
SKILL - I would really like to learn how to better identify color shades.
KNOWLEDGE - Classic cover markings - I’m beginning to delve into covers much more and wow do I have a LOT to learn - it’s so exciting.
Any suggestion on a Covers 101 book to read?
Let’s hear from you!
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bafletcher
Member
Posts: 143 
What I collect: Worldwide Stamps and Covers (focus: British Africa, Caribbean, British Commonwealth, Croatia, Greece, Pakistan, Nepal)
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Post by bafletcher on Oct 8, 2023 12:10:28 GMT
That's a great question, philatelia! I've been a collector for many years, so I'm almost embarrassed to admit this, but I need good guidance in at least three areas: Accurately measuring perforations ... I have three different perf tools: a blue, laminated one from (I think) Lindner; a transparent Scott Multi-Gauge; a metal Unitrade with cut-out area. For starters, I perpetually have this question (just when I think I *know* I second guess myself): in catalog listings for perfs, is the first number the vertical or horizontal measurement? And, are there good digital ways of assessing perfs? Identifying watermarks ... I have the tray, I have the fluid ... I've used them with little success. Is there a better way? And can I dunk my MNH in the fluid without damaging the gum? I also struggle with identifying color shades. I am especially perplexed with shades that seem to change over the years due to natural oxidizing or fading processes. Is there a definitive color or shade guide out there? I appreciate any helpful suggestions! Bart |
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madbaker
Member
Posts: 693
What I collect: (Mark) General worldwide collector (to 1975 or so) with a soft spot for Sweden and the rest of Scandinavia.
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Post by madbaker on Oct 8, 2023 15:15:13 GMT
I'm quite content to be a happy generalist these days, flitting between topic to topic, enjoying the excitement of others as they pursue detailed study etc.
However, I seem to get great pleasure learning about the evolution of definitive sets. The catalogues may list a long set as if they all came out at once, but often they come in stages, as the postal rates change and new stamps are needed. I find that interesting, especially when explained well.
A great example of what I mean is the Swedish Definitives blog. I love it and have read through the blog several times. So add that type of information to your "knowledge" list, Terri!  |
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JeffS
Member
Posts: 2,610
What I collect: Oranges Philately, US Slogan Cancels, Cape of Good Hope Triangulars, and Texas poster stamps and cinderellas
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Post by JeffS on Oct 8, 2023 17:49:38 GMT
My social skills.
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rod222
Member
Posts: 9,930
What I collect: Worldwide Stamps, Ephemera and Catalogues
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Post by rod222 on Oct 8, 2023 23:34:38 GMT
That's a great question, philatelia ! I've been a collector for many years, so I'm almost embarrassed to admit this, but I need good guidance in at least three areas: Accurately measuring perforations ... I have three different perf tools: a blue, laminated one from (I think) Lindner; a transparent Scott Multi-Gauge; a metal Unitrade with cut-out area. For starters, I perpetually have this question (just when I think I *know* I second guess myself): in catalog listings for perfs, is the first number the vertical or horizontal measurement? And, are there good digital ways of assessing perfs? Identifying watermarks ... I have the tray, I have the fluid ... I've used them with little success. Is there a better way? And can I dunk my MNH in the fluid without damaging the gum? I also struggle with identifying color shades. I am especially perplexed with shades that seem to change over the years due to natural oxidizing or fading processes. Is there a definitive color or shade guide out there? I appreciate any helpful suggestions! Bart Hi Bart, Accurate Perforation measurements. Opinion Forget all the fancy digital measurement software. Just simply begin to practice using the "sliding scale" on your preferred perf guage Line up the TEETH of the stamp to coincide with the lines that match, then guage where that reads to the guage numbers, eg 11.5 or 11.33 etc Your Catalogue regime will ALWAYS number perf dimensions beginning with the top, and then clockwise to the other 3 sides (yes there are stamps with 3 differing perf sides if all sides are the same, the 1 perf size is listed, if triangular the right side etc TIP I have a stamp mount with genuine stamps face down, with PROVEN perf guages pencilled on the back 12, 11.5, 10 etc etc You can use these as fast tests as TEMPLATES for testing multiple stamps to pick up varieties. That covers most postage stamps, however, when SPECIALISING in special circumstances (early US or Canada) then specialised perf guages exist to address some tricky sizes ------------------- "Identifying watermarks ... I have the tray, I have the fluid ... I've used them with little success. Is there a better way? And can I dunk my MNH in the fluid without damaging the gum?" The bane of all worldwide collectors, identifying watermarks can send one potty You are not alone. Decent stamps like early Australia, which used good paper making with good "dandy rolls" (that imprinted the watermarks) can be a pleasure to watermark Then try Bermuda, Brazil, Argentina... and watermarking must be carried out, if at all, by a few stamps at a time to prevent insanity Be aware some countries used watermarked paper, to print a differing format stamp, which gives watermarks, part watermarks, and none at all. Yes MNH are generally fine in watermarking fluid -------------------------------------------------- I also struggle with identifying color shades. I am especially perplexed with shades that seem to change over the years due to natural oxidizing or fading processes. Is there a definitive color or shade guide out there? Again, this is a problem with all collectors, You can just find a method that suits your own personal satisfaction, and stay with that I have a Gibbons colour chart, that satisfies me basically, but of course never takes into consideration, deterioration of ink colour, light damage, bad husbandry with soaking, how water, bad ink mixing by country ad nauseum. PS: My investments in watermark detectors, of any sort, ended in a net loss, I never had any success with any "SAFE" etc and thay can be very expensive only detector not tried is the one with variable colour film strips, blue, red and green? not tried that one |
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darkormex
Member
Swinging through Switzerland and getting tied up in Thailand
Posts: 2,145
What I collect: The World...just printing and mounting as I go...call me crazy!
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Post by darkormex on Oct 9, 2023 0:36:16 GMT
I want to be able to read the kanji in early Japanese postmarks. Kanji are the set of Chinese characters used in the Japanese language. I have a basic knowledge of perhaps 30 or so Chinese characters through my learning of the Korean language and the set of Chinese characters used in Korea called Hanja but these are not specific to Philately, postal markings or town and city names.
I have been creating a glossary for myself as I learn new Kanji for various postal markings, postal date stamps, telephone and telegraph date stamps, etc...and am slowly starting to recognize them. Translation apps on my phone and the various Japanese catalogues that I have are a great help. There are also several websites that I used to draw characters to help identify them.
The biggest challenge is Prefecture, City, Town and post office names, which, again, using translation apps and being able to copy and paste the names into my web browser, is the best way. There is no magic solution to this, it is just me using various resources and memorizing characters at this point until it becomes easy.
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stainlessb
Member
qaStaHvIS yIn 'ej chep
Posts: 4,645
What I collect: currently focused on most of western Europe, much of which is spent on France, Belgium, Germany and Great Britain Queen Victoria
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Post by stainlessb on Oct 9, 2023 1:04:05 GMT
I think what I hope to improve is confidence in the color variations. It is a perplexing, albeit fascinating aspect of this hobby. First is coming to terms on the acceptance of the fact that the names used to describe colors can get lost in translation. Immediate examples can be found in Michel and SG- same name. but not exactly the same color, plus understanding that the description of these colors often date back many many years, and how the use of words changes over time.
and then there's the inks to consider
Long before color photography/reproduction was an option(and certainly before the wondrous tool that digital technology offers, and yet also adds its' own set of issues. Scanners and monitors vary in how they "see/display", not to mention variations in the human eye from individual to individual. To paraphrase a song "... got two good eyes and still don't see...."
And then there is the effects of time, as well as environmental impacts.
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cjoprey
Member
Scanning stamps for my website...
Posts: 1,443
What I collect: Belgium (predominantly), British Commonwealth (older ones), WW (whatever comes my way...)
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Post by cjoprey on Oct 9, 2023 10:57:05 GMT
Oh wow. What a question. And where to start... I continue to learn more about Belgian stamps - especially the paper types as they really can be fiddly to get right, and even more so when they include gum colours... As I get deeper down the rabbit hole,. I also hit colour issues. As many others have said, it is a minefield as each catalogue uses it's own colour scheme, and even then not consistently. I've come to the conclusion that I use what makes sense to me. And if it's wrong, it's wrong...  For skills I think I continue to get better at removing hinged stamps from books, and then removing the hinge from the stamps (especially MH ones). As to watermarks... They are the bane of my life in certain countries... I have a bunch of Hong Kong ones I still haven't been able to identify with any certainty. Having said all this, it's the ability to learn about these little pieces of paper with glutinous wash on the back that makes my life interesting and at times more bearable. The artwork, the process of creation, the socio-political influences, the history, the geography, the people I share this passion with all make it a joy to keep continuing to build both skills and knowledge. I do believe that once we are tired of learning, we are tired of life. And I have SO much I still want to learn! |
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bafletcher
Member
Posts: 143
What I collect: Worldwide Stamps and Covers (focus: British Africa, Caribbean, British Commonwealth, Croatia, Greece, Pakistan, Nepal)
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Post by bafletcher on Oct 9, 2023 11:47:25 GMT
That's a great question, philatelia ! I've been a collector for many years, so I'm almost embarrassed to admit this, but I need good guidance in at least three areas: Accurately measuring perforations ... I have three different perf tools: a blue, laminated one from (I think) Lindner; a transparent Scott Multi-Gauge; a metal Unitrade with cut-out area. For starters, I perpetually have this question (just when I think I *know* I second guess myself): in catalog listings for perfs, is the first number the vertical or horizontal measurement? And, are there good digital ways of assessing perfs? Identifying watermarks ... I have the tray, I have the fluid ... I've used them with little success. Is there a better way? And can I dunk my MNH in the fluid without damaging the gum? I also struggle with identifying color shades. I am especially perplexed with shades that seem to change over the years due to natural oxidizing or fading processes. Is there a definitive color or shade guide out there? I appreciate any helpful suggestions! Bart Hi Bart, Accurate Perforation measurements. Opinion Forget all the fancy digital measurement software. Just simply begin to practice using the "sliding scale" on your preferred perf guage Line up the TEETH of the stamp to coincide with the lines that match, then guage where that reads to the guage numbers, eg 11.5 or 11.33 etc Your Catalogue regime will ALWAYS number perf dimensions beginning with the top, and then clockwise to the other 3 sides (yes there are stamps with 3 differing perf sides if all sides are the same, the 1 perf size is listed, if triangular the right side etc TIP I have a stamp mount with genuine stamps face down, with PROVEN perf guages pencilled on the back 12, 11.5, 10 etc etc You can use these as fast tests as TEMPLATES for testing multiple stamps to pick up varieties. That covers most postage stamps, however, when SPECIALISING in special circumstances (early US or Canada) then specialised perf guages exist to address some tricky sizes ------------------- "Identifying watermarks ... I have the tray, I have the fluid ... I've used them with little success. Is there a better way? And can I dunk my MNH in the fluid without damaging the gum?" The bane of all worldwide collectors, identifying watermarks can send one potty You are not alone. Decent stamps like early Australia, which used good paper making with good "dandy rolls" (that imprinted the watermarks) can be a pleasure to watermark Then try Bermuda, Brazil, Argentina... and watermarking must be carried out, if at all, by a few stamps at a time to prevent insanity Be aware some countries used watermarked paper, to print a differing format stamp, which gives watermarks, part watermarks, and none at all. Yes MNH are generally fine in watermarking fluid -------------------------------------------------- I also struggle with identifying color shades. I am especially perplexed with shades that seem to change over the years due to natural oxidizing or fading processes. Is there a definitive color or shade guide out there? Again, this is a problem with all collectors, You can just find a method that suits your own personal satisfaction, and stay with that I have a Gibbons colour chart, that satisfies me basically, but of course never takes into consideration, deterioration of ink colour, light damage, bad husbandry with soaking, how water, bad ink mixing by country ad nauseum. PS: My investments in watermark detectors, of any sort, ended in a net loss, I never had any success with any "SAFE" etc and thay can be very expensive only detector not tried is the one with variable colour film strips, blue, red and green? not tried that one Thanks, rod222, for those very helpful suggestions. I especially appreciate the hint about a reference of PROVEN perfs! Bart |
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angore
Member
Posts: 5,361
What I collect: WW, focus on British Empire
Member is Online
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Post by angore on Oct 10, 2023 10:05:02 GMT
I have given up on understanding shades. I avoid them. The most interesting aspect aspect is tagging especially related to Machins Machins have different paper types, tagging types, etc over the years. Watermarks can be a challenge on some stamps. As a more general collector, it is hard to build up the knowledge that comes with just handling enough stamps.
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vikingeck
Member
Posts: 3,269
What I collect: Samoa, Tobacco theme, Mail in Wartime, anything odd and unusual!
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Post by vikingeck on Oct 10, 2023 11:14:29 GMT
I only have one issue with colour variations . BLUE ! In Cape triangle collecting the separation of the 4d blue between Perkins Bacon and De La Rue is critical and listed blue variants make a huge difference to pricing. Chris Beryllium Guy does the separation with confidence and I have consulted him on several occasions. I just don’t get it ! Blue is blue and leaves me blue 😰😰 |
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cursus
Member
Posts: 1,774
What I collect: Catalan Cinderellas. Used Switzerland, UK, Scandinavia, Germany & Austria. Postal History of Barcelona & Estonia. Catalonia pictorial postmarks.
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Post by cursus on Oct 10, 2023 11:47:14 GMT
To identify the Norwegian posthorns. I find it very hard!
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rod222
Member
Posts: 9,930
What I collect: Worldwide Stamps, Ephemera and Catalogues
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Post by rod222 on Oct 10, 2023 13:44:41 GMT
To identify the Norwegian posthorns. I find it very hard!
American Philatelist Page 688 2018
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cursus
Member
Posts: 1,774
What I collect: Catalan Cinderellas. Used Switzerland, UK, Scandinavia, Germany & Austria. Postal History of Barcelona & Estonia. Catalonia pictorial postmarks.
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Post by cursus on Oct 11, 2023 11:51:54 GMT
Thank you, Rod.
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philatelia
Member
Captain Jack - my best kiloware find ever!
Posts: 3,416
What I collect: Ireland, Japan, Scandy, USA, Venezuela, Vatican, Bermuda, Austria
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Post by philatelia on Oct 12, 2023 11:43:47 GMT
Wow - lots of great responses to my question! Thank you!  Well I guess I’m not alone in struggling with color - so many of you also find color differentiation tough. At least we can take solace in knowing that we are not alone! rod222 - very nice of you to take the time to offer some super helpful tips - much appreciated. But - how would you answer my original question? Is there any area that offers you new and interesting challenges? |
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rod222
Member
Posts: 9,930
What I collect: Worldwide Stamps, Ephemera and Catalogues
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Post by rod222 on Oct 12, 2023 12:12:35 GMT
Wow - lots of great responses to my question! Thank you! Well I guess I’m not alone in struggling with color - so many of you also find color differentiation tough. At least we can take solace in knowing that we are not alone! rod222 - very nice of you to take the time to offer some super helpful tips - much appreciated. But - how would you answer my original question? Is there any area that offers you new and interesting challenges? Is there any area that offers you new and interesting challenges? Tough question, in short no, After years of collecting, I came to the realisation my make up was of "Jack of all stamps, master of none" I have a very advanced collection of Turkey, but due to obvious language difficulties, and stock scarcity, I would never understand the complexity of Turkish history and the ability to accurately ID Turkish Postmarks. That goes with any country, the deeper you drill down the harder it becomes. My Philatelic enjoyment comes from the collection of Philatelic Literature, and the ability to ID abstruse philatelic items. The collection of items others oft times feel deplorable ( The so called "dune" stamps", sundry ephemera etc ) Locals, Postmarks, etc & etc. I swap with several collectors, and we send each other the "junk" we no longer want I love this, recently in a box of several thousands of world stamps I found 58 I did not have I was delighted. I was once buyer of "she says they must go " lots at auction, suitcases and boxes of stamps of all sorts That was fun, but the holiday is over, these lots now go for hundreds of dollars. |
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philatelia
Member
Captain Jack - my best kiloware find ever!
Posts: 3,416
What I collect: Ireland, Japan, Scandy, USA, Venezuela, Vatican, Bermuda, Austria
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Post by philatelia on Oct 12, 2023 13:14:55 GMT
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salentin
Member
collecting Germany,where I live and about 20 more countries,half of them in Asia east of the Indus
Posts: 5,639
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Post by salentin on Oct 12, 2023 13:40:33 GMT
I appreciate any helpful suggestions! Bart Bart, there are two simple solutions for measuring perforations and detecting watermarks:
1.) The SAFE "PERFOtronic" is the best tool for measuring perforations. 2.) The SAFE Signoscope T1 is the best for watermarks.
The only set-back is the price: here in Germany round-about US $ 300.- each.
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REL1948
Member
Posts: 584
What I collect: 1840-Pre-Decimal, GB and Colonies, 1840 1 penny reds, Postal Histories
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Post by REL1948 on Oct 12, 2023 14:51:15 GMT
Bart,
there are two simple solutions for measuring perforations and detecting watermarks:
1.) The SAFE "PERFOtronic" is the best tool for measuring perforations. 2.) The SAFE Signoscope T1 is the best for watermarks.
The only set-back is the price: here in Germany round-about US $ 300.- each.
I purchased a 'SAFE" "PERFOtronic a couple of years ago. For me it's been a very mixed experience. Unquestionably, it's very accurate when it makes a reading, however; in my experience it hasn't worked on every stamp. There have been numerous times where the device wouldn't read the perfs and instead showed "ERROR". When this happens, I've not yet been able to get around it. Sometimes by repositioning the stamp in the 'PERFOtronic" it gives a reading but typically, no matter how the stamp is inserted it just keeps reading 'ERROR". I've had the most problems with CANADA Small Queens and the Great Britain Line Engraved issues. It zips through modern perfs with no problems but I don't collect those stamps so it's not been very useful for my interests.
Considering the fickleness and difficulty experienced, I would have trouble recommending this tool out of hand. In the end, perforation gauges have served me far better. This is just my experience, your' mileage may vary depending on the material your measuring....
Rob
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stainlessb
Member
qaStaHvIS yIn 'ej chep
Posts: 4,645
What I collect: currently focused on most of western Europe, much of which is spent on France, Belgium, Germany and Great Britain Queen Victoria
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Post by stainlessb on Oct 12, 2023 15:25:45 GMT
Rob
Had you tried putting the problem stamp in face down? (so the scanner is reading the back of the stamp)? I have found where the obliteration and/or weak/missing perfs interferes. This works solves the problem of no reading on two software apps I use (Stamp Analyzer and PERFOMASTER )
Stan
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