Stamps are one of the most collectible items in the United States and other countries. There are millions of collectors worldwide who swap and sell stamps.

Before you start spending money collecting stamps, take the time to research the basics of collecting. Some books that may be helpful:

Beginner's Stamp Collecting Fun Kit: Everything You Need to Start a Fun and Fascinating Hobby

Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting

Postcards are almost as popular as stamps. They evoke memories of times that are past and places we've been that may no longer exist. Like stamps, they are colorful and don't require a lot of space or equipment to collect. A good beginner's guide is the book Collector's Guide to Post Cards.

Perhaps not as popular, but certainly as much fun, is the collection of coin banks related to the post office and postal service.

Vintage post office box doors can be a collectible item, or can be used to add a fun antique element to home or office decor.