Fake Stamps Part I Of III

Even the most experienced collector can be duped into buying a fantastically made fake stamp. Some collectors may even buy them on purpose to add to their collection. Fake stamps are sometimes knowingly purchased so that experienced collectors can study the stamps and learn valuable information about the fakes.

In understanding the underworld of stamp making and altering, it is important to understand the differences in fake stamps.

A fake stamp is different than a forgery. A fake stamp is a genuine stamp that has been altered in some way to change its appearance. Counterfeit stamps are labels that have been created to specifically defraud stamp dealers. Forged stamps are labels that have been created explicitly to defraud collectors.

Collectors should be become familiar and look for the techniques that are used to defraud the Philatelic community.

Repairing damage to stamps, false cancels, overprints, re-gumming and re-perforation are all techniques that the criminals use to fool you. Identifying a fake stamp can be tricky at times, as there are several things that you should be looking for in the process. People who go to the effort of faking stamps are definitely in it to make a good buck.

Please check back on Friday for more information on how to avoid a fake stamp.