The London-listed stamp-dealing investment firm Stanley Gibbons, which dates its origins back to 1856, logged an increase in pre-tax profits of 11 per cent to £1.2 million in the six months to 30 June, 2008 compared with the same period a year before. Sales rose by 12 per cent £9.8 million, the firm said.

The firm declared an interim dividend of 2 p net per share, a rise of 14 per cent.

Stanley Gibbons has been benefiting from the investor hunger for more alternative investments such as collectibles like stamps, art, antique furniture, classic cars and antique musical instruments.

"The benefits of investing in collectibles as an alternative asset class have never been clearer. Collecting is an all-consuming passion. That is why the prices of rare stamps and historical signatures show no correlation with the stock market, property prices and other traditional forms of investment,” Martin Bralsford, non-executive chairman, said in a statement.

“Historically collectibles have increased the most in times of high inflation. The investment argument is fast becoming too compelling to ignore – not only do rare stamps and historical signatures provide a means of diversification and a safe haven in difficult economic conditions, but also provide a hedge against inflation,” Mr Bralsford said.