Collectors are gearing up for one of the most anticipated Canadian philatelic auctions in years as Eastern Auctions prepares to open bidding on the Camellia PLC Collection on Nov. 22. The single-session sale of 265 lots promises to deliver museum-level rarities, including proofs, essays and pristine examples of Canada’s Pence, Cents and Large Queen issues. Auction specialists are already calling it a once-in-a-generation event.
Among the showstoppers is the legendary “Goodall” compound die proof pairing the 12-pence and 10-cent denominations – an exceptional piece of engraving history produced by the American Bank Note Company. Joining it are some of the finest known multiples of early Canadian classics, such as a 36-stamp SPECIMEN block of the five-cent Beaver and the largest surviving black trial colour proof block from the same issue.
Collectors of the Large Queens will find equal excitement, with a unique 12.5-cent artist’s essay and a spectacular mint block of 25 of the six-cent brown – both items that rank among the most important survivors of their type. The six-cent double print error, of which only four exist, returns to the market after more than three decades in private hands.
According to Eastern Auctions’ Yohann Tanguay, the Camellia offering rivals past landmark collections such as Dale-Lichtenstein and Brigham, showcasing remarkable depth across proofs, essays, and Gem-quality stamps. Many pieces represent the largest known multiples in private ownership, making this sale a benchmark event for serious collectors.
This feature story is among several highlights in the latest issue of Canadian Stamp News, released today – Oct. 7. While mail delivery is affected by the nationwide postal strike, the issue – along with past editions – is available through the Canadian Stamp News Digital Edition. Readers can purchase single copies or annual subscriptions directly at canadianstampnews.com.