From: no-one@no-where.dot   
      
   "David F."  wrote in message   
   news:3fc90e39_1@mk-nntp-2.news.uk.tiscali.com...   
   > > > Two possibilities here....   
   > > >   
   > > > If it is NOT important to keep the gum intact, just soak them in warm   
   > > > water, then dry them separately on blotting paper.   
   > > >   
   > > >> David.   
   > > > =================================================   
   > > Thanks David,  I'll give it ago.As I know some are fairly valuable early   
   > > english and foriegn. If gum is missing would it affect value much.   
   > > With used ones there would be no gum.   
   > > "Roger"   
   > > >   
   > > >   
   >   
   >   
   > I would be very careful with early GB stamps, as some have 'fugitive'   
   > printing ink and will be seriously damaged - mostly those with Green   
   > or Lilac inks.  Try it on the used stamps first!   
   >   
   > More 'modern' stamps, from 1914 onwards, are 'safe'!   
   >   
   > Removing the gum from stamps with more than average value will   
   > decrease their value - dramatically on rare ones.  But how much are   
   > they worth while all stuck together?   
   >   
   > I believe there are 'safe' liquids you can buy from stamp dealers to   
   > do this without losing the gum, but I don't know the product names.   
      
   The Barrington Smith Trade (Wholesale) List includes something called   
   *STAMPLIFT* for removing stamps from paper etc. - "just apply a little to   
   the stamp or paper on the back and it will peel off, without damage, in   
   about 60 seconds. Will not damage or discolour any stamp that is not   
   affected by water."  Retail price is £1.95 for plastic bottle of approx 3oz.   
      
   Have never tried this so don't know if it works.   
      
   >   
   > David.   
   >   
   >   
   GJ   
      
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