[acneman]

I have a small collection of some old stamp and coins. I was curious if anyone here knows a little about this hobby. I don't the slightest idea how to gauge what I have, the worth, the history, etc.
A lot of the coins I have are old and not in very good shape (mostly US/CAN pennies from the early 1900's to the 1970's) and all I really know is circulated coins usually arn't worth anymore than their currency value.

The stamps however I have absolutely NO idea on, I have thousands! Ranging from the 1800's all the way to the late 1900's collections, old Star Wars stamps, pop culture stamps and a lot in between.

Anyone have any idea on this hobby and want to shed some light for inquiring minds? [thumbup]

[johnstylet]

Stamp collecting is a cut throat hobby. Its why I have always avoided getting involved.[surrender]

[zlopikanikanza]

You'll just have to research things a bit.

But if you have a 1943 copper penny with an "s" mint mark I will buy it off of you for $100.

[CicyHannyCeli]

Local community library...[yawn]

[Lorionasodi]

Like antiques you'll need books and a lot of friends and contacts in the industry.

[Snitiendumurn]

A lot of the coins I have are old and not in very good shape (mostly US/CAN pennies from the early 1900's to the 1970's) and all I really know is circulated coins usually arn't worth anymore than their currency value.

That's certainly true of pennies from the 70s but if you have any Indian head cents from 00s they are worth about a dollar.

A good place to start might be PCGS' pricing guide. If you want to collect and have real value pre '65 half dollars are a good investment. They contain about $6.50 worth of silver and kind of obviously pre 65 quarters, $3.25.

[acneman]

You'll just have to research things a bit.

But if you have a 1943 copper penny with an "s" mint mark I will buy it off of you for $100.

I do have a 1943 penny, however it has no mint mark.

Hmm a library, it didn't occur to me to check there!