This is the ultimate guide to embarking on, and getting the very most out of the world's most popular hobby.
An in-depth introduction traces the evolution of the postal services, from the Roman mail coaches rushing to the forefront of fighting to wartime Zeppelin flights, and the advent of rail, boat and air as methods of mass delivery.
Different methods of collecting, and the practical aspects of building and maintaining a collection, are covered in detail.
Read some of the fascinating stories behind the world's most sought-after stamps, from the famous commemoratives of American presidents to issues from some of the most remote POs in the world.