Frequently asked questions

Philately is not reserved for experts: you can start at any age and on a modest budget. The most important thing is to choose a theme you really enjoy — a country (classic France, the former Colonies…), a period, or a topic (aviation, ships, wildlife…).

• Get simple equipment: a stockbook, a pair of stamp tongs and a reference catalogue (Yvert et Tellier).
• Favour quality over quantity: one fine stamp is worth more than ten damaged ones.
• Always handle your stamps with tongs, never with your fingers.
• Feel free to ask for advice: beginners are most welcome at the shop.

Buy from a recognised professional who belongs to a chamber of experts. At La Postale, every lot is precisely described, photographed and guaranteed by our experts (members of the Chambre des Experts en Philatélie).

You can buy in two ways: at the shop, or through our mail auction (vente sur offres) (pages in French). For valuable pieces a certificate is recommended: do not hesitate to ask for it.

The value of a stamp depends above all on its condition. Points to look at: the gum (on the back), the presence or absence of a hinge, the width and regularity of the margins, the freshness of the colours, the sharpness of the postmark, and the absence of defects (crease, thin, tear, foxing).

We use the standards of the Chambre syndicale des experts:

• ** — mint never hinged, original gum intact
• * — mint, lightly hinged
• Obl — used, very fine
• (*) — mint without gum
• TB (très beau) — first choice, no defects; B (beau) — good appearance with minor defects

A certificate is a document issued by a recognised expert that attests the authenticity and the exact condition of a stamp or cover. It is essential for rare or valuable pieces: it secures the purchase and makes resale much easier.

All our lots are examined and guaranteed. For your own pieces, we can advise you and point you to the recognised experts who issue certificates (Calves, Brun, Roumet, Behr…).

Valuation is free and without obligation. There are three ways: fill in our appraisal form with a few photos, call us on +33 1 40 26 63 03, or simply come to the shop.

We examine the whole lot (albums, covers, loose stamps) and, depending on the case, offer you a direct purchase or a sale in our mail auction. In the case of an estate or inheritance, we assist you with the greatest discretion.

It is a calm sale, with no auction room and no pressure. You browse the catalogue and state, for each lot, the maximum price you are willing to pay.

At closing, each lot is awarded without buyer’s fees to the highest bidder, at the price of the second-highest bid plus 5% — and never above your maximum. So you often pay less than your limit. See the detailed conditions.

Your choice: through the website (bid form, in French), by telephone, by post or by e-mail. Simply give the lot number and your maximum bid — we bid on your behalf, as economically as possible.

Payment: bank card (secure payment), cheque, bank transfer, or payment directly at the shop.

Delivery: insured registered mail, or free collection at the shop (55 Passage des Panoramas, Paris 2^e). A detailed invoice comes with every parcel.

Yes, we always have. We ship worldwide by tracked and insured mail, and accept international payments. You can write to us in French or in English — we will be glad to reply.

Keep your stamps away from light, damp and heat, in good-quality (PVC-free) albums and pockets. Handle them with tongs and keep an up-to-date inventory.

To pass on a collection (inheritance, gift, sharing), an updated valuation makes things much easier. We are at your disposal to advise you.

At 55 Passage des Panoramas, 75002 Paris (metro Grands Boulevards), in the historic heart of Parisian philately.

Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6:30 pm (Wednesday until 5 pm). With or without an appointment — write to us or call +33 1 40 26 63 03.