Online stamp and philatelic supplies store

Hobby collectors, people who have inherited a collection and want to fill gaps, and gift buyers looking for starter kits.

You buy collections, estate lots and wholesale supplies, then resell stamps and accessories at a markup. Starter kits and supplies give steadier sales between bigger stamp sales.

• Knowing stamps well enough to identify and grade them
• Clear photography and listing descriptions
• Careful packing and record-keeping

• Authenticity and condition: describe items honestly, as forgeries and repaired stamps are a known risk
• Sales tax: check your state's rules, including how marketplaces collect tax for you and whether you need a seller's permit
• Home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home
• Insurance for valuable inventory and insured, tracked shipping for higher-value orders
• Paying fair prices when buying collections from families, as bad buying decisions eat into profit

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your photography and packing supplies, and any website costs. These are estimates, so set your own budget before buying inventory.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on your stock, pricing and how often you list. Treat this as an estimate, and remember that buying collections at fair prices affects how much you keep.

Check your state's sales tax rules, including how marketplaces collect tax for you and whether you need a seller's permit. Also check home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home, and insurance for valuable inventory.