John Apfelbaum

Jenkintown, PA

A resident of Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, John Apfelbaum has served for 40 years as a professional philatelist, buying and selling stamps for collectors. Currently, Mr. Apfelbaum serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Earl P.L. Apfelbaum, Inc., one of the oldest and best-respected stamp buying and selling companies in the world. A Licensed Auctioneer with the State Board of Auctioneer Examiners in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, John Apfelbaum also belongs to the American Philatelic Society, the premier professional association in the United States for those interested in the collecting and studying of stamps.

Mr. Apfelbaum attended the University of Pennsylvania from September 1971 to May 1975, when he earned his Bachelor of Arts magna cum laude in History. John Apfelbaum applied his longstanding interest in history in exploring the rich background of the manufacture, use, sale, and collecting of stamps. He remains one of the most experienced professionals working in the field today. Mr. Apfelbaum has also published a book entitled The World of Stamps & Stamp Collecting. An in-depth guide to every aspect of philately, the book has been endorsed by the American Philatelic Society and is popular with collectors around the world.

Written in conjunction with David Lidman, a former stamp columnist with the New York Times, the book leads both beginners and experienced collectors through the Hobby of Kings. More information about the book may be found online at John Apfelbaum's website, www.apfelbauminc.com. John Apfelbaum supports the Pennsylvania Prison Society, where he serves as a Re-Entry Coordinator.

A social justice organization, the Society advocates on behalf of prisoners, their families, and formerly incarcerated individuals. The organization's Re-Entry Services Program helps individuals leaving prison to lead productive, self-sufficient lives in the community. In addition to his philanthropic work, Mr. Apfelbaum enjoys sports, including tennis and racquetball as well as reading.

  • Work
    • Philatelic Auctions