Today marks the fifth anniversary of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of COVID-19 as a worldwide pandemic. On March 11, 2020, the WHO officially proclaimed the global spread of the novel coronavirus, setting off a chain of events that drastically altered everyday life—including within the Canadian philatelic community.
As the pandemic unfolded, stamp shows, club meetings, and in-person auctions were abruptly cancelled. Major events, such as the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada (RPSC) Convention and numerous local stamp exhibitions, were either postponed or entirely scrapped. Philatelic clubs across the country found themselves in uncharted territory, unable to gather in person due to lockdowns and health restrictions. Dealers also faced significant challenges, with brick-and-mortar shops temporarily closing and traditional business models being disrupted.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, global delivery and logistics faced major disruptions, including parcel backlogs and international shipping delays. In recognition of its nearly 68,000 employees, Canada Post issued a special booklet of 12 personalized stamps (Scott 2586a) as a token of appreciation.
Yet, amid these disruptions, the philatelic community adapted. The forced pause led to an accelerated shift toward digital platforms. Collectors and organizations embraced social media, online auctions, and virtual meetings, ensuring that the camaraderie of the hobby persisted despite physical distancing measures. Zoom and other video conferencing platforms became invaluable tools, allowing clubs to hold meetings and educational presentations remotely. This technological pivot not only sustained interest in the hobby but also helped expand its reach, bringing philately into more homes than ever before.
Another surprising effect of the pandemic was a resurgence of interest in stamp collecting. With many Canadians spending more time at home, nostalgia and a search for engaging hobbies led some to rediscover their childhood collections. Others, motivated by financial uncertainty, turned to rare stamps as alternative investments. The demand for philatelic material surged, with auction houses reporting strong results and online marketplaces seeing increased activity.
As the world moves forward five years after the initial pandemic declaration, the philatelic industry continues to benefit from the lessons learned during that unprecedented period. While in-person events have largely resumed, virtual meetings and online engagement remain essential tools in connecting collectors across Canada and beyond. The pandemic posed significant challenges, but it also spurred innovation, proving that even in difficult times, the passion for collecting endures and evolves.