The value of the stamp and First day covers
The market values of the stamps are decided as per their rarity, condition and subject of the collection. If your collection is not related or targeted to any specific subject then the value of the collection is negligible. But if your collection is targeted to any specific subject or any specific country then the price it would command would be more. Same goes for the condition of the stamps. If the condition of the stamp is good or mint condition then the value would be more as compared to the stamps having poor and shabby condition and damaged. Rarity is another factor which plays a major role in deciding the value of the stamp.
To find out the value of the stamps in your collection you may go to a genuine stamp dealer or to the philatelic bureau of your city General Post Office, who would be able to guide you properly. For your benefit numbers of catalogs is available depicting the rarity and the value of the stamp. To get a high value for your collection there are certain tips available on the net also which is very relevant to the stamp collectors of all countries, you can go through those tips before you proceed further (http://www.stampdomain.com/selling.htm). Some countries have provided software to locate a particular stamp and value it. On the net mostly the valuation services are available for other countries except India. For Indian stamps it is advisable to proceed as discussed before.
Participating in the auction or online auction is another way to get a higher value for your collection. Always remember that commemorative stamps attract greater value as compared to the definitive stamps. Some Indian stamps attract very high value in the market.
