A superb two volume collection of Great British stamps is coming to auction in Barcelona, Spain later in the month.

The collection, which spans from 1840 to the four Seahorse denominations of 1912, is estimated to sell for €8,000 on May 24.

The leading British stamps are up 10.8% pa since 1998

And while the values may not match the astronomical prices seen at the recent Chartwell collection sale, it is a reminder of the global appeal of British stamps at auction, especially when presented in such superb condition.

Indeed, it is not just the top end of the market that offers opportunities for stamp investors, as Gerd Bennewirtz, the general manager of brokerage company SJB, told the German Die Welt newspaper.

"Especially in times of crisis, stamps are a good way of reducing asset volatility," he said.

"Big spenders will be looking to find unique or very rare stamps, such as the 1847 Blue Mauritius that a Singapore collector paid some €5m for in 1993.

"But for smaller investors, interesting options exist for as little as €1,000.

Here at Paul Fraser Collectibles we recognise the differing needs of our clients, with stamps ranging from this remarkable 1840 trial plate to this superb block of four from Hong Kong, available at £960,000.

Or those looking to snap up a bargain at auction, these four Great British investment-grade postage stamps at PFC Auctions' online sale are currently available.

The leading 30 collectible British stamps have risen in value by 10.8% pa since 1998, states the GB30 Rarities Index.

The auction ends on May 24.

A large West German and Berlin collection will also feature at the Barcelona sale, with a €4,000 valuation, while there will, of course, also be major opportunities for collectors of Spain and her former colonies.