About
The Philatelic Traders' Society (PTS) has served as the backbone of the professional stamp trade since 1929. It unites hundreds of philatelic professionals worldwide — from major auction houses to specialist cover dealers — under a rigorous Code of Conduct that ensures buyers and sellers can transact with confidence. The iconic PTS Shield signals verified, trustworthy membership. Key offerings include a comprehensive Member Directory searchable by name, location, keyword, and category, making it easy for collectors to find reputable dealers or valuation specialists. The PTS Expertising Service provides rapid, flat-rate authentication for Great Britain stamps, removing the need to charge based on catalogue value alone. The Red Call Database records lost or stolen items reported by members, helping reunite collectors with their property. The society organises Stampex International at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London — a free-entry show running for over 70 years that attracts 65+ PTS members and thousands of collectors. Virtual Stampex complements the physical event with an annual online exhibition open to the global philatelic community. Additional benefits include PTS People's Choice Awards, an educational blog, newsletters, and one-to-one membership consultations. The PTS is the definitive professional body for anyone serious about the philatelic trade.
Key Features
- Verified Member Directory: Search hundreds of PTS-verified dealers by name, location, keyword, or category — including specialists offering valuation services.
- PTS Expertising Service: Rapid, flat-rate authentication for Great Britain stamps, priced on work done rather than catalogue value.
- Red Call Database: A registry of lost or stolen philatelic items reported by members, helping the community identify and recover stolen property.
- Stampex International: Europe's largest stamp show, held in London for over 70 years, with free entry and 65+ PTS member exhibitors.
- Virtual Stampex: An annual online philatelic exhibition connecting collectors and traders from around the world.
Use Cases
- A stamp collector looking for a reputable, verified dealer in their region uses the PTS Member Directory to find a local specialist.
- A philatelic professional applies for PTS membership to display the Shield on their eBay listings and boost buyer trust.
- A collector submits a rare Great Britain stamp to the PTS Expertising Service to obtain an authentication certificate before auction.
- A dealer reports a stolen collection to the PTS to have it listed on the Red Call Database and alert the wider trade community.
- A stamp enthusiast attends Stampex International for free to buy, sell, and connect with over 65 PTS member exhibitors in London.
Pros
- Trusted trade mark: The PTS Shield is widely recognised as a sign of verified integrity, boosting buyer confidence when purchasing from members.
- Long-established network: With roots going back to 1929, the PTS offers access to one of the most established professional philatelic networks in the world.
- Flat-rate expertising: Authentication fees are based on actual work, not catalogue value, making the service fair and predictable for all members.
- Free public show access: Stampex International offers free entry, lowering barriers for collectors to engage directly with professional dealers.
Cons
- Membership required for full benefits: Many professional tools and networking opportunities are gated behind a paid membership application process.
- GB stamps only for expertising: The PTS Expertising Service is currently limited to stamps of Great Britain, limiting utility for worldwide philatelic specialists.
- Niche audience: The platform serves a specialist hobby and trade sector, with limited relevance outside the philatelic community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Philatelic Traders' Society?
Membership is open to philatelic professionals including dealers, auction houses, cover specialists, and others involved in the stamp trade. Applicants must agree to the PTS Code of Conduct and are verified before joining.
What does the PTS Shield mean?
The PTS Shield on a listing or profile indicates that the seller is a verified member of the PTS and has agreed to uphold its Code of Conduct, giving buyers added confidence.
How does PTS Expertising work?
The PTS offers a rapid authentication service for Great Britain stamps at a flat charge based on the work involved, not the catalogue value. Collectors submit stamps to receive an expert opinion on authenticity.
What is the Red Call Database?
The Red Call Database is a registry maintained by the PTS that lists philatelic items reported lost or stolen by members. Anyone with information about listed items is encouraged to contact the PTS.
What is Stampex International?
Stampex International is Europe's largest philatelic show, organised by the PTS and held at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London. It has run for over 70 years and offers free entry to visitors.
