Author Archives: Jim Szeplaki

For nearly a century, collectors accepted the colourful "Riel Essay" as an unissued stamp essay prepared for Louis Riel's provisional government during the Red River Resistance. The remarkable label appeared in catalogues, exhibits and collections, becoming part of Canadian philatelic lore. But what if the accepted explanation didn't stand up to closer scrutiny? Continue reading →

New Royal Philatelic Society of Canada president Peter MacDonald says the country's oldest national philatelic organization is entering its second century with a clear sense of purpose and an eye toward long-term sustainability. Elected in May, MacDonald believes the society's future will be shaped by thoughtful planning, meaningful member services and strong governance. Continue reading →

Fresh-to-the-market rarities from one of the finest collections of British North America philately ever assembled generated more than $3 million in sales at Eastern Auctions' latest Camellia collection offerings. The June 19–20 Canada Part II and Newfoundland Part I sales attracted more than 300 registered bidders from across North America and Europe, with nearly every... Continue reading →

As exhibitors competed for top honours and collectors searched for elusive treasures at BOSTON 2026, another important discussion was taking place behind the scenes: how can organized philately adapt to changing demographics, evolving technology and the expectations of future collectors? Continue reading →

One of the headline features in the latest issue of Canadian Stamp News (Vol. 51 No. 5), released June 2, is our in-depth preview of Eastern Auctions' landmark Camellia Collections sale of Newfoundland philately. The June 20 auction, titled Pence to Airmails Newfoundland – Part I, is expected to rank among the most important Newfoundland... Continue reading →

Eastern Auctions’ second instalment of the landmark “Camellia Collection” sale is shaping up as one of the most important Canadian philatelic auctions offered in decades, featuring legendary treasures exhibition calibre postal history and major proof material unseen publicly for generations. Continue reading →

A remarkable archive from one of Canada’s most historic royal events is about to come to market, offering collectors a rare inside look at the postal operations aboard the 1939 Royal Train. The small group of material, assembled by Major G. W. Ross, the train’s postmaster, is set to headline an upcoming Garden City Philatelic... Continue reading →

Canadian collectors and societies are pressing ahead with plans to participate in Boston 2026, ensuring a national presence at one of the world’s premier international stamp exhibitions despite shifting travel patterns. Continue reading →

The Royal Philatelic Society of Canada is opening the door for collectors curious about exhibiting from a different perspective, one that goes beyond building displays and into the decision making behind the scenes. Continue reading →

The story of Canada’s first postage stamps is often told through two iconic issues, the Three-Penny Beaver and the rare Twelve-Pence Black. Yet a third stamp, issued alongside them on April 23, 1851, quietly completes the picture. The Six-Pence Consort, bearing a portrait of Prince Albert, played a crucial role in the postal system of... Continue reading →