Linet Christine Thomas has built her collection of currencies and coins from over 15 countries but looks forward to build a collection of musical instruments from across the world...
Since when did you start collecting currencies?
I was 8-year-old, when my uncles and aunts who visited me from abroad would bring in currencies from different countries they traveled to. My father too got a couple of them during his stay abroad. That was it, I never realised when this hobby turned into a passion.
Tell us a bit about the collection that you have.
I have coins and currencies from over 15 countries. Today, I have total 290 stamps from 34 countries. In that I have 40 Indian Stamps. I wish to collect stamps and currencies from all 196 countries of world.
What do you plan to do with the collection that you're building?
I plan to keep it with me as memories. Since I am building the collection on my own with so much love and care, I do not intend to barter it for money.
How do you store the collection at home?
I have a scrapbook and an album in which I keep the currencies, stamps and coins. I also keep a few of them inside my books.
Which ones are your favorites among the currencies and coins that you have?
My favorite coin is from Israel. It is called agora. My favorite currencies are Singapore and Hongkong paper notes because it is made with glossy and smooth to touch and does not get spoit easily.
What would you like to tell youngsters like you who want to build their collection?
I don't think you need an age to start building a collection. Anybody can start hobbies at any age. It gives us knowledge, happiness, keeps us creative all the time.
Stamps, currencies, coins... What next?
Since I am a musician, I wish to have a collection of musical instruments from across the globe.
Here Are 6 Reasons Why You Should Collect Stamps
1- History Keeper: Stamps are a great source of keeping history. They represent historical events, people and places. It makes learning fun as you keep a collection of almost every little thing in the world. From the confines of your home, you get to visit so many exotic locales.
2- Numerous way to collect: Be a generallist or a specialised collector, choose for yourself. There is no limit to how you can collect a stamp. A specific country, area, things, location, options are endless.
3- No cost involved: The benefit of stamp collecting is that you do not have to spend a lot. You can spend as much as you want, a little or more.
4- Socially beneficial: Like any other hobby, stamp collection can also bring you in touch with like-minded people. You can become a member of a club or group and interact with other people. You get to share and enjoy your hobby with others.
5- Stress reducer: Spend as much time as you desire and collect stamps any time. It doesn't have to be done in a particular season or month. It is a great way to help reduce stress and feel accomplished. Further, there is no time constraint either. Doit at your own convenience.
6- Learning on the go: The amount of information that you research on stamps brings you learning every now and then. You have libraries, websites to offer you insight into every aspect of stamps.