It
depends on how extensive your collection is and how you want it to be displayed. It
depends on whether you want to customize your pages or use a preprinted version. It also
depends on whether you want to display them ina frame or an album. The bottom line is there is a lot of flexibility and mostly it is a matter of
personal preference. However, in order to preserve the stamp quality for long term storage
-- acid free and archival materials should always be considered to preserve the stamps in
whatever storage method is used.
Also consider storing the collection in a cool, dry place,
preferably air conditioned. Also add a couple of bags of moisture absorber to grab any
moisture due to humidity increases, etc. These are available in gun stores, or
stereo/electronics stores.
It's very important to store a collection vertical, standing upright
rather than on its side. Pressure on the stamps will cause them to stick. DO NOT use baby
powder, cornstarch, or other means to protect them as bugs love that stuff and will do
damage to the material.
There are several ways to store your Duck Stamps:
* Several software packages available on the market that can be used
to customize your album pages. Pick up a stamp magazine or newspaper to find one that fits
your needs.
* The simplest way to store them might be a Hagner's or Vario stock
page. This is a very straight forward and economical way to go but it is very plain.
* There are several display frame formats to choose from as well.
Several of our dealer members specialize in
these frames, check out the website for their listings.
* Sterns and Fink Federal Duck Stamp album -- that is for Federal
stamps only and features extensive biographical information on the artist/stamp for each
issue.
* Scott Combination Album -- both federal and state pages -- no
biography.
* White Ace Federal Duck Pages -- only federal -- fancy page
borders. Nice heavy stock.
* A few other choices that may have been discontinued -- Harsh and
Houk and International Duck Stamp pages.
* When using an album, instead of a stock page, you will want to
mount your stamps, not hinge them to keep them in perfect mint condition and post office
fresh. These come in various brands and sizes to fit duck stamps. Any dealer should stock
either black or clear mounts in several sizes needed for all duck stamp variations. The
color used is a matter of preference and either one provides a safe home for your ducks.
You should try and find a local duck stamp dealer/specialist who can
show you the options and then you can decide what way you prefer and fits your budget.
Also other collectors can provide you some of their tips and tricks.
Visit our Duck Stamp Dealers Page to find society dealer members for
more help: dealer.html">dealer.html
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