Stamp hinges and hinge marks

A stamp hinge is a small strip of gummed paper used to attach a stamp to an album page. The American Philatelic Society (APS) describes hinges as thin paper attachments made for this purpose. A hinge mark is evidence of that mounting on the back of the stamp.

Marks, remnants and damage

APS distinguishes a faint disturbance in the gum from a hinge remnant still attached. Aggressive removal can also tear away stamp paper and leave a thin spot. A paper attachment and damage to the stamp paper are therefore different conditions that should be described separately.

Uncancelled does not mean unhinged

A stamp can be uncancelled yet have been hinged. In its technical definitions, Germany’s BPP expert association distinguishes unused stamps with hinges or hinge marks from stamps with unaltered original gum. The latter is assessed with allowance for natural ageing. An album label therefore does not replace examination of the back.

A stamp mount holds the stamp without the same type of gummed paper attachment. The American scouting handbook Stamp Collecting describes mounts and stockbooks as alternatives for unused stamps with full gum.

Before assessing an inherited collection

Practical suggestion: Photograph the albums as a whole and note which stamps are already loose. Do not tear stamps free to reveal their backs. Record albums and known background in the collection inventory. Leave uncertain condition descriptions qualified.

Browse stamps at OBA, or send photographs and collection information for assessment and possible purchase.