Helpful Score: 1
I have purchased many philatelic books over the last 20 years and still rate this little paperback as the best value among all the introductions to Stamp Collecting on my bookshelf. If you are looking for a book about stamps you can stick in a briefcase or purse and read during short breaks, this is an excellent choice. Adams covers almost every topic of importance to the beginning or intermediate collector. You will find sections devoted to philatelic terms, how and where to find stamps, the technical aspects of collecting, how to safely store your collection, equipment and tools used by collectors, how to value your stamps, stamps as an investment, stamp societies and publications, stamp production processes, etc. Because the book was published in 1992, it lacks any information related to the Internet. Nevertheless, it provides a wealth of information that is still up-to-date and relevant. Open any page and start reading. You will find the book jammed full of sections you will want to refer to again and again...
Although this book was written in the early 1990s, only a few technical aspects of the hobby have changed. "Stamp Collecting" is still a great introduction into the unique past time. I recommend this book for both novices starting off and for experts who may desire a refresher of the basics of stamp collecting.
