Stamp dealer at fairs and collectors' markets

Collectors browsing in person, people wanting a valuation or selling an inherited collection, and beginners looking for supplies.

Margin on stamps and supplies sold at the stall, plus buying collections from the public to resell at fairs or online.

• Knowing stamp values and condition
• Friendly, trustworthy face-to-face selling
• Packing and setting up a tidy stall

• Public liability insurance, which many markets require
• Check market or council permit rules for stalls in your area
• Check whether your state has second-hand dealer rules, especially when buying from the public
• Pay fair prices for collections, and don't overstate what you can offer
• Event fees and travel costs can eat into margins at quiet fairs

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the stock, stall equipment and insurance you choose. Event fees and travel costs can eat into margins at quiet fairs, so factor them in.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on how many fairs you attend and what stock you carry. These are estimates, and event fees and travel costs reduce what you keep.

Check market or council permit rules for stalls in your area, and whether public liability insurance is required, as many markets ask for it. Also check your state's second-hand dealer rules, especially when buying from the public.