Editing Stamp collecting (section)

== Equipment ==
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A few basic items of equipment are recommended for proper stamp collection. Stamp tongs help to handle stamps safely, a magnifying glass helps in viewing fine details and an album is a convenient way to store stamps. The stamps need to be attached to the pages of the album in some way, and stamp hinges are a cheap and simple way to do this. However, hinging stamps can damage them, thus reducing their value; today many collectors prefer more expensive ''hingeless mounts''. Issued in various sizes, these are clear, chemically neutral thin plastic holders that open to receive stamps and are gummed on the back so that they stick to album pages. Another alternative is a stockbook, where the stamps drop into clear pockets without the need for a mount. Stamps should be stored away from light, heat and moisture or they will be damaged.

Stamps can be displayed according to the collector's wishes, by country, topic, or even by size, which can create a display pleasing to the eye. There are no rules and it is entirely a matter for the individual collector to decide. Albums can be commercially purchased, downloaded or created by the collector. In the latter cases, using acid free paper provides better long-term stamp protection.

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File:Stamp tongs.jpg|[[Stamp tong]]s with rounded tips help to prevent damage to stamps from skin oils and rough handling.
File:Stamp hinges.jpg|Clockwise from top left: hinge-mounted stamp, stamp about to be hinge-mounted, stamp damaged by a hinge, [[stamp hinge]]s
File:Making stamp mounts at home by hand.jpg|Making stamp mounts at home by hand
File:Odontometer.jpg|[[Perforation]] gauge. Also known as an odontometer.
File:Magnifying glass.jpg|A [[magnifying glass]]
File:Stamp album sleeve.jpg|A [[stockbook]] with clear plastic pockets is one of the safest ways to store stamps. Some collectors prefer a traditional stamp album.
File:US postage stamps on album pages.jpg|Pre-printed stamp album with United States country pages affixed
File:Prag postmarks.png|Custom printed loose-left album page displaying stamps postmarked in [[Prague]]
</gallery>