By Kalpana Shah

Collecting stamps, coins, and antiques is a fascinating journey. It connects us to history, culture, and craftsmanship. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or a retiree, collecting can be a rewarding hobby.

Many people begin collecting out of curiosity. Some do it as an investment, while others enjoy the thrill of owning rare items. In India, stamp and coin collecting has been a passion for generations. Many families pass down their collections, creating a legacy.

I remember my grandfather showing me an old one-rupee coin from 1947. He held it as if it were gold and told me how India had just gained independence when that coin was minted. That moment sparked my interest in collecting.

Getting Started with Stamps

Finding Your First Stamps: Start with everyday stamps. Check your mail for used stamps. Ask friends or family for old envelopes. Visit a local philatelic bureau or post office to buy special edition stamps.

In Mumbai, the easiest way is by visiting the General Post Office (GPO) near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), formerly known as Victoria Terminus (VT). Similarly, in Kolkata, the GPO on Netaji Subhas Road, B.B.D. Bagh, is a great place to start.

Storing Your Stamps: Never glue stamps into a book. Use a stamp album or a stock book. Tweezers help handle them without damage.

Learning About Stamps: Each stamp tells a story. India Post releases stamps on festivals, famous personalities, and historical events. Research their background. Over time, you will learn to recognise valuable ones. I once found an old Gandhi stamp in my uncle’s attic. It turned out to be worth thousands!

Diving into Coin Collection

Finding Coins: Check your wallet—Indian currency designs have changed over the years. Ask older relatives if they have old coins. Visit flea markets or numismatic fairs.

Types of Coins to Collect

• Commemorative Coins – Released for special events (e.g., 75 Years of Independence coin).
• Old Indian Coins – Coins from the British Raj or princely states.
• Error Coins – Misprinted or misstruck coins are rare and valuable.

Caring for Your Coins: Avoid cleaning them with chemicals. Store them in protective holders or albums. Moisture and dust can degrade them. A friend once found a rare one-paisa copper coin from 1950 in a tea shop’s change. He later sold it for a surprising amount to a collector!

Exploring Antiques

What Counts as an Antique?: In India, an item older than 100 years is considered an antique. This includes furniture, jewellery, paintings, and household items like brass utensils and wooden carvings.

Where to Find Antiques?

• Visit old bazaars in cities like Jaipur, Kolkata, and Lucknow. In Mumbai, Chor Bazaar is a worth place visiting, especially on Fridays. In Ahmedabad, you can try your luck and find some great collectibles on Sundays at Ravivari and Gujri Bazaar. 
• Look for online antique stores like Mangrol Store.
• Sometimes, family heirlooms turn out to be hidden treasures.

Verifying Authenticity

• Check craftsmanship details.
• Look for maker’s marks or inscriptions.
• Consult an expert if unsure.

I once picked up a dusty brass lamp from a vendor in Mumbai’s Chor Bazaar on Mutton Street. Later, an expert told me it was a 19th-century temple lamp worth a fortune! A few years later, I sold it for a hefty profit.

Growing Your Collection

• Join Collector Groups – Connect with like-minded people online or in clubs.
• Attend Exhibitions – Museums and trade fairs often showcase valuable collectibles.
• Buy from Reputable Sellers – Stores like Mangrol Store ensure authenticity.
• Keep Learning – Read books, watch videos, and stay updated.

Conclusion

Collecting stamps, coins, and antiques is more than just a hobby—it’s a window into history and culture. Start small, stay curious, and enjoy the journey. Who knows? One day, you might own a piece of history!