Stamp Buyers Guide and Frequently Asked Questions
How can I view a close-up image of the Stamps?
For a close up enlarged look of any stamp(s) click on the image to open an enlarged view. If you want to inspect the stamp further click on the enlarged image to inspect using the web magnifying glass.
If you are viewing on a mobile you need to double tap the image
I cannot find the stamps or stamp collections I am looking for, can you help?
Yes.
You can search, by Country or Era, from the drop down menus.
Alternatively, use the search box found in the top right hand corner of any page where you can enter the Stanley Gibbons S.G. number of the stamp or enter the Country.
If you still cannot see the stamps you want then please call us or complete the online enquiry form and we will get back to you.
Is there a minimum Stamps order?
No.
Do you send Stamps outside the UK?
Yes, we ship Worldwide
What is the cost of postage?
Standard postage is FREE for every order.
If you require your item to be insured and trackable, up to a value of £50, we charge a nominal fee of £2 for UK, or £4 for Rest of World.
How can I pay for my stamps or stamp collections?
We accept payment with all major Debit and Credit cards, including American Express, through SagePay. We also accept PayPal, BACS and cheques.
What is your policy on returns of Stamps?
We offer a money back guarantee if not entirely satisfied with your stamps for any reason.
What if my order of Stamps is lost or damaged during in the post?
Our FREE postage option is insured up to £20. If you choose this option it is your responsibility to make a claim from the Post Office. We will send you proof of posting upon request.
Our insured postage option is fully insured and we will make the claim on your behalf should your order get lost or damaged in transit.
If you do not receive your stamps within the estimated delivery times please contact us and we will provide a tracking number upon request.
If the packaging is damaged upon arrival please state as such when signing for your stamps. This will enable us to make a claim, on your behalf, much quicker.
How are my stamps packaged?
We have abandoned Sellotape in all packaging of our stamps as removing this risks damaging the stamps. Note to fellow dealers!
All stamps are placed on an appropriate sized stock card and place in a cellophane envelope. Your invoice is folded around the card and placed in a “Do Not Bend” hard backed brown envelope. Where possible we use commemorative or definitive stamps on the envelope.
Do you accept "Stamps Wants" lists?
No.
We are happy to source difficult stamps. If you have a specific stamp or set that you are looking for, and you cannot find it on our website, please complete the online enquiry form detailing which stamps you are after including the SG number if you have it.
Are you interested in buying my stamp collection?
Yes.
We are always on the lookout for new stamps and stamp collections from collectors and private individuals.
We only buy Commonwealth stamps and British Stamps.
Please give us a call or complete the online enquiry form giving a brief detail of what stamps you have to sell, together with some images, and we will contact you to arrange further inspection.
We do buy Face Value stamps which we use for posting out our orders.
Are the Stamps I see on the image the one I am going to get?
Yes.
All stamps listed are in stock and the image you see is the stamp(s) you will be getting.
The only exception to this is the GB Box Files and Commonwealth Stamp Box files and the Stamp Mixtures. These are illustrated as an example of what you will get.
How long will my Stamps take to arrive?
All Stamps and Stamp Collections are dispatched within 24 hours of payment being received, excluding weekends and bank holidays.
For UK Stamp orders delivery should be within 2 days, unless Next Day Guarantee has been selected.
For International Stamp orders delivery should be within 5-12 working days depending on where in the world you are.
Can I place my order for the Stamps I want over the phone?
Yes.
We take orders for Stamps, Stamp Collections and Box Files over the phone. You can also pay using your card over the phone if you would prefer not to enter your card details online.
Our office hours are Monday to Friday 9.00am to 17.00pm
Our telephone number is 01189474114
Can I spread payment for my stamps over a month or so?
Yes.
For stamp orders over £250 we will accept payment in three instalments over two months. The first payment to be made on placing your order, the second payment due one month later and the final payment due one month after that. Your order will be sent after the final payment has been received. If you require further extended terms we are happy to discuss this.
All your stamp prices are in GBP sterling. Can I pay using USD or Euros?
Yes.
When you pay your bank or Credit Card Company will convert the amount from GBP sterling into your currency. To find out the current rate of exchange click on the flag, top right of any page, and change the currency to the one you wish to purchase in.
What do the abbreviations on your stamp descriptions mean?
MNH = Mint Never Hinged. Stamps as issued with full original gum and never mounted.
VFU = Very Fine Used. Used Stamps with a light cancel or Circular Date Stamp (CDS) or equivalent.
Click here for a full list of Stamp Grading
We hope this FAQ and buyers guide has helped, however, if the answer to your question is not here please use the "Contact Us" form at the top of the page or email sales@empirephilatelists.com and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
If you want an answer fast then please call us, we are a friendly bunch really and don't forget ....