Stamp Investment Tip: Afghanistan 4th Asian Games Souvenir Sheets (Scott #603Note)

  

 In 1962, Afghanistan issued a set of stamps and pair of souvenir sheets honoring the 4th Asian Games (Scott #603Note). 3,000 of the souvenir sheets were issued, and Scott '14 prices them unused at $7.00 .

  The set has appeal as a Sports Topical. Despite the fact that Scott only notes the sheets rather than assigning a catalog number to them (thereby questioning their legitimacy), the low issuance quantity, thematic appeal, and price make them a very low-risk speculation.

A nation of over 28 million people, Afghanistan is one of the world's poorest countries. In 2010, the nation's GDP per capita was about $1,000. Its unemployment rate is 35% and roughly 36% of its citizens live below the poverty line. About 42 percent of the population live on less than $1 a day, according to USAID. However, due to the infusion of multi-billion dollars in international assistance and investments, as well as remittances from expats, the economy has significantly improved, with the GDP growing at an astounding 10 percent per year over the past five years. Opium production is a major part of the underground economy, employing over 2 million Afghans.

Recent discoveries of major mineral deposits make the country look compelling from a long-term perspective. In 2010, Pentagon officials, along with geologists from the United States, announced the discovery of $1–3 trillion worth untapped mineral deposits in Afghanistan. The country may possess up to 36 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, 3.6 billion barrels of petroleum, up to 1.3 billion barrels of natural gas liquids and huge deposits of gold, copper, coal, iron ore, lithium, and other minerals.

Those interested in becoming part of an international community of stamp collectors, dealers, and investors are encouraged to join the "Stampselectors" group at Facebook. The group hosts lively discussions concerning stamp investment and practical aspects of collecting, and provides a useful venue for those who wish to buy, sell, or trade stamps.