philatelist

A philatelist is a person who studies and collects stamps and postal history. The practice, called philately, encompasses the acquisition, organization, preservation, and analysis of postage stamps and related objects such as covers, postmarks, and postal stationery. While many philatelists primarily collect stamps for their design, rarity, or condition, others focus on postal history and the routes, rates, and services reflected by mailed items. Philately is a hobby, a field of study, and a form of historical research.

Collectors may specialize by country, era, or theme; common areas include stamp varieties, perforations, watermarks, plate blocks, and forgeries. Researchers may examine postal routes, rates, censorship, and historical contexts. Catalogues such as the Scott, Stanley Gibbons, and Michel guide prices and descriptions; valuation can depend on condition, rarity, and provenance. The hobby is supported by societies, clubs, and exhibitions.

Prominent philatelic organizations include the Royal Philatelic Society London, founded in 1867; the American Philatelic Society, founded in 1886; and international bodies such as the Federation Internationale de Philatélie (FIP). Philatelic exhibitions, auctions, and periodicals help maintain standards, promote education, and connect collectors worldwide. Ethical collecting emphasizes legal acquisition, proper attribution, and preservation of material for future research.