To protect your stamp collection, you'll need stamp mounts – transparent sleeves made from archival-quality plastic that shield stamps from damage while displaying them beautifully. They're available in various sizes and styles, including clear or black-backed options to suit your preferences. You'll want to measure your stamps carefully and add 1-2mm for the perfect fit. Proper mounting techniques and storage methods will guarantee your valuable stamps remain pristine for generations to come.
Key Takeaways
- Choose archival-quality stamp mounts that match your stamps' dimensions, adding 1-2mm for proper fit and protection.
- Store mounted stamps in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent deterioration and yellowing.
- Use tongs when handling stamps and a damp sponge for mount adhesive to avoid contamination or damage.
- Select black-backed mounts for enhanced protection against light damage and better contrast for display purposes.
- Replace mounts immediately if you notice yellowing, brittleness, peeling adhesive, or accumulated debris inside.
What Are Stamp Mounts and Why They Matter
Stamp mounts are transparent sleeves made of archival-quality plastic that protect valuable postage stamps while allowing them to be displayed in albums.
These specialized holders come in various sizes to accommodate different stamp dimensions and feature a black or clear backing that makes your stamps stand out visually.
When you're building a stamp collection, using proper mounts is essential for preserving your stamps' condition and value. They prevent damage from handling, dust, moisture, and environmental factors that could otherwise deteriorate your stamps over time.
You'll find that quality mounts have a gentle adhesive on the back that won't harm your album pages, while the front remains chemical-free to safeguard your stamps.
Unlike cheaper alternatives, proper stamp mounts won't yellow or become brittle with age.
Types of Stamp Mounts Available
Several distinct mount varieties are available to collectors today. The most popular options include split-back mounts with adhesive on both sides, and hingeless mounts that open at the top.
You'll find clear or black-backed versions – clear ones let you see the entire stamp, while black backgrounds make designs pop.
Pre-cut mounts come in standard sizes for common stamps, saving you time and effort. If you're working with irregular stamps, you can purchase mount strips and cut them to size.
There's also the choice between traditional paper-based mounts and modern plastic ones made from materials like polyester or polystyrene.
When selecting your mounts, consider factors like stamp size, preservation needs, and whether you'll need to remove the stamps later.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Stamps
You'll need to carefully measure both the height and width of your stamps before selecting mounts to guarantee a proper fit.
Common mount sizes follow standard measurements in millimeters, making it easier to match your stamps to the right protection.
Since most stamp catalogs list recommended mount sizes, you can use these as a reliable starting point for sorting your collection into appropriate mount dimensions.
Measuring Your Stamps First
Properly measuring stamps before buying mounts is critical for maintaining your collection's professional appearance.
You'll need a reliable millimeter ruler or gauge to measure both the height and width of each stamp, including the perforations.
Place your stamp on a clean, flat surface and align your ruler along the edges. Measure from the outer tip of one perforation to the opposite side's outer tip. If you're measuring an imperforate stamp, simply measure the actual design edges.
For irregular-shaped stamps, measure the longest points in both directions.
Add 1-2mm to your measurements to guarantee your stamp won't be too tight in the mount. It's better to have a slightly larger mount than one that's too small, which could damage your stamp's edges.
Common Mount Size Standards
Four universal mount sizes cover most standard postage stamps: 21x24mm, 24x41mm, 30x41mm, and 41x53mm. These measurements represent the internal dimensions of the mount, where your stamp will sit. The first number indicates the height, while the second shows the width.
You'll find that 21x24mm works for most definitive stamps, while 24x41mm suits horizontal commemoratives. The 30x41mm size accommodates vertical commemoratives, and 41x53mm fits larger special issues or souvenir sheets.
For unusual stamp sizes, you can trim larger mounts or use specialty sizes available from manufacturers.
Just remember to leave a 2-3mm margin around your stamp's edges when selecting a mount. This buffer prevents damage while allowing easy insertion and removal.
Clear vs. Black-Backed Stamp Mounts
When choosing between clear and black-backed stamp mounts, you'll need to contemplate both aesthetic presentation and preservation needs for your collection.
Clear mounts offer full visibility of your stamps while black-backed mounts create dramatic contrast that can make colors pop and hide any residual adhesive marks.
You can mix both types in your collection, using clear mounts for stamps you want to examine from both sides and black-backed mounts for display-focused presentation.
Appearance and Visual Impact
The visual difference between clear and black-backed stamp mounts can dramatically affect your collection's overall appearance.
Clear mounts provide a seamless look, making your stamps appear to float on the album page. They're ideal for displaying both sides of stamps or showcasing watermarks.
Black-backed mounts create a striking frame effect that draws attention to your stamps' designs. They'll enhance contrast and help define the stamp's edges, especially for lightly colored or pale specimens.
You'll find they're particularly effective for presenting dark or richly colored stamps against white album pages.
Your choice between clear and black mounts should reflect your display preferences and the specific stamps in your collection.
Consider mounting similar stamps consistently to maintain a professional, cohesive look throughout your album.
Preservation and Display Options
Beyond aesthetic considerations, clear and black-backed stamp mounts offer distinct preservation benefits for your collection.
Clear mounts let you examine both sides of your stamps without removal, making it easier to spot potential damage or deterioration. They're ideal if you need to check watermarks or monitor paper quality over time.
Black-backed mounts provide superior protection against light damage, which can fade your stamps' colors and degrade the paper. They're particularly valuable for preserving rare or valuable stamps that you'll display for extended periods.
You'll want to choose black-backed mounts for stamps that are sensitive to light exposure or when your album will be stored in bright conditions.
Both types effectively shield your stamps from dust, moisture, and physical handling while allowing safe, long-term display.
Choose Mount by Usage
Selecting appropriate stamp mounts depends on your collecting goals and display preferences.
Clear mounts let you see both sides of your stamps, making them ideal if you want to examine watermarks or study printing details. They're also perfect for displaying stamps in albums where you'll view them from both sides.
Black-backed mounts create a sharp contrast that makes your stamps' designs stand out, especially for exhibition purposes. They're excellent for showcasing multicolored stamps and preventing show-through from album page text or other stamps.
You'll find them particularly useful when mounting light-colored or thin stamps that might appear washed out in clear mounts. Choose black-backed mounts when you're primarily concerned with the stamp's front appearance and want to create a professional, museum-quality display.
How to Properly Insert Stamps Into Mounts
Properly inserting stamps into mounts requires attention to detail and a steady hand to prevent damage. You'll need a clean, flat surface and mount strips cut slightly larger than your stamps. Verify your hands are clean and dry before handling any stamps.
Hold the mount horizontally and gently bend back the top flap. Don't crease it – just create enough space to slide the stamp in. Pick up your stamp using tongs, never your fingers, and carefully insert it into the mount from the top. The stamp should sit centered and straight, with equal borders on all sides.
Once positioned, slowly release the flap to secure the stamp. Check that it's properly sealed and lying flat. If you need to adjust the stamp's position, lift the flap again rather than pushing through the mount.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Mounts
While stamp collecting can be rewarding, several common mounting mistakes can damage your stamps and diminish their value.
Don't cut mounts too close to the stamp's edges, as this can cause the stamp to slip out or become creased. Avoid using mounts that are too large, which allows stamps to shift and potentially get damaged.
Never lick or moisten the mount's adhesive strip with your tongue – use a damp sponge instead to prevent contamination.
Don't rush when measuring your stamps; incorrect mount sizes can lead to poor fit and potential damage. Be careful not to touch the mount's adhesive side with your fingers, as oils can reduce its effectiveness.
Finally, don't store mounted stamps in direct sunlight or humid conditions, as this can cause the mounts to deteriorate and potentially harm your stamps.
Storing Mounted Stamps Safely
After you've invested time mounting your stamps, proper storage becomes essential to preserve their condition and value.
Keep your mounted stamps in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. You'll want to store them upright in albums or stock books to prevent curling and warping.
Don't stack heavy items on top of your stamp albums, as this can damage the mounts and stamps inside. Use acid-free storage materials and consider placing silica gel packets nearby to control moisture.
If you're storing valuable stamps, invest in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box for added protection.
Check your stored stamps periodically for signs of deterioration or mount failure. You should also handle the albums carefully when removing them from storage to prevent unnecessary stress on the mounts.
Cost Comparison of Different Mount Brands
Before deciding which stamp mounts to buy, you'll need to contemplate the significant price differences between major brands.
Hawid and Showgard mounts typically cost 20-30% more than Scott or Prinz options, though they often provide superior clarity and durability. If you're mounting a large collection, these price variations can add up quickly.
Budget-friendly brands like Unis-Safe offer packs at half the price of premium options, but you might notice reduced transparency and shorter lifespan.
For the best value, consider buying in bulk during hobby shop sales or online promotions. You'll find that pre-cut mounts cost more per unit than strip versions you cut yourself, but they save considerable time.
Keep in mind that black-backed mounts generally run 10-15% higher than clear ones across all brands.
Signs Your Stamp Mounts Need Replacement
Even the highest quality stamp mounts won't last forever, so you'll need to monitor their condition regularly.
Watch for yellowing or browning of the plastic, which indicates chemical breakdown that could damage your stamps. If you notice the mount becoming brittle, developing cracks, or losing its flexibility, it's time for replacement.
Check the adhesive strip on the back of your mounts. When it starts peeling away or leaves residue on album pages, you'll need new mounts immediately.
You should also replace mounts that have accumulated dust or debris inside, as these particles can scratch your stamps. If you spot any warping, bubbling, or separation of the mount's layers, don't wait – replace them right away to protect your valuable stamps from potential damage.
Tools and Supplies for Mounting Stamps
While preparing to mount your stamps, you'll need several essential tools and supplies to guarantee proper placement and protection.
You'll want quality stamp mounts in various sizes, sharp scissors designed for precision cutting, and stamp tongs to handle the stamps safely without touching them directly.
Keep a ruler or measuring guide handy to verify accurate sizing of your mounts. You'll also need a clean mounting surface and good lighting.
Consider getting a magnifying glass to inspect stamps for damage before mounting them. Stock up on stamp hinges if you're working with used stamps, and have a pencil nearby for making light guide marks on your album pages.
Don't forget to keep cleaning supplies like a soft brush to remove any dust or debris.
Conclusion
You'll find that proper stamp mounts are essential for protecting your valuable collection. By choosing the right type, size, and backing color, you're ensuring your stamps stay pristine for years to come. Remember to check your mounts periodically for signs of wear and replace them as needed. With the right tools and careful mounting techniques, you're making a smart investment in preserving your philatelic treasures.