Stamp Collecting ' with over 3 million enthusiasts ' in the UK is a major hobby. Collins Gem Stamps provides an introduction to the subject, starting with advice on beginning a collection and recognizing the key features of stamps and indicating the many ways that a collection can develop. Gem Stamps provides an introduction to the world of stamp collecting from starting a collection from stamps that come in the post through learning more about the history of stamps and how they are made, to appreciating the wide range of different types of stamps and related items ' postmarks, envelopes, etc ' and on to specialized collections and the most valuable stamps in the world, each step being illustrated by a wide range of stamps. A guide to stamp collecting from starting a collection to developing specialist interests The ways in which stamps are produced and catalogued explained Hundreds of illustrations of stamps included.