Stamp Collectors are special. The little bits of perforated paper are captivating. Each small piece of artwork holds more than one secret. The hidden knowledge can only be obtained through careful study and observation. Where did the stamp originate, when and where was it cancelled, are there any special markings (overprints, surcharges, etc.) that add more to the story?
As a young collector, on any given Saturday, if you did not find me down at the local stamp store you could find me at the kitchen table surrounded by stamps and a bowl of warm water. Once I got started soaking stamps there was no stopping me. Many times my sessions were interrupted by my mother tapping me lightly on the shoulder and saying it was time to set the table for dinner.
Friends would stop by asking me to go to the movies - there was a sci-fi monster double feature, popcorn was only a dime. I could not stop in the middle of soaking stamps, it would be curtains for the free world. My friends waited while the last stamps slowly separated from the paper backing. I had to lay the stamps out, cover them, and set the books in place. Only then could I clean up the table, store my supplies, and head out to the movies.
My friends might not have understand what was so appealing about little bits of paper. At the age of 11 or 12 did anyone understand what an obsession was? What my friends did understand was the need for me to complete this task. After missing a number of movies, or leaving without me, my friends learned to arrive early.
To this day, friends and family shake their heads when the stop by the home and see the binders, albums, and glassines of stamps. They have learned, if you bother him it is just going to take longer. They patiently wait while I clean things up before heading out to a brunch, lunch or dinner. Time is of the essence.
Comments