Stamp dealer at shows, clubs and fairs

Collectors who like to browse in person, club members looking for specific issues, and casual visitors at general collectibles fairs.

Table sales at shows, plus follow-up orders from want lists and repeat customers. You also buy collections from visitors at the table, which feeds your stock.

• Stamp knowledge and fair pricing
• Friendly, patient selling to collectors
• Organizing stock for travel and display

• Table fees and travel costs can outweigh sales at a quiet show, so track results per event
• Sales tax: check your state's seller's permit rules, as many shows ask dealers to show one
• General liability and inventory insurance, as venues sometimes require proof of coverage
• Theft and loss when carrying valuable stock, so keep high-value items secure
• Accurate descriptions of condition and authenticity to protect your reputation

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on the stamp stock you carry, display gear and travel. Table fees and travel costs can outweigh sales at a quiet show, so treat these as estimates and track results per event.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many shows you attend, your stock and your prices. Track results per event, since quiet shows may not cover your costs.

Check your state's seller's permit rules for sales tax, as many shows ask dealers to show one. Also check general liability and inventory insurance, since venues sometimes require proof of coverage, and keep high-value stock secure against theft and loss.