A unique discovery in modern Canadian philately is already driving spirited bidding ahead of Garden City Philatelic Auctions’ third public sale, set for Sept. 25–28, 2025.
Lot 539, an imperforate 2005 $1.35 Homer Watson Souvenir Sheet, mint never hinged and extremely fine, had climbed to $1,900 by 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 23 — nearly double its $1,000 estimate. Found in a sealed 2005 annual collection envelope, the sheet is believed to be the only example known. Auction manager Stéphane Cloutier describes it as “a must-have for any varieties collector,” noting the strong early interest confirms its importance.
Lot 792 features the 1913 £2 Deep Rose and Black Kangaroo and Map, Wide Crown and Wide A Watermark, mint lightly hinged. A scarce and desirable example of the high-value first watermark printing.
Another featured item, Lot 792, the 1913 £2 Deep Rose and Black Kangaroo and Map with Wide Crown and Wide A Watermark, was sitting at $1,150 as of the same date. Mint lightly hinged and in fine condition, the high-value first watermark issue carries a Scott value of US$6,000 and is considered one of the great rarities of Australian philately.
Postcard collectors will also be watching Lot 1190, an extensive collection of 53 real photo patriotic postcards depicting Canadian ships and steamers. Each is surrounded by a patriotic design of lanterns, life preservers and flags, with serial numbers ranging from #3419 to 3832. Subtle design variations, including suffixes and omitted clouds, add further depth. Printed by Warwick Bro’s & Rutter in Toronto, most cards are unused, while a few mailed examples are postmarked between 1907 and 1910. The lot has already drawn strong online interest and is billed as a rare opportunity for specialists or dealers.
Beyond these featured items, Canadian offerings include early steamship covers and the “Nancy” collection of mint Canada, with imperforate pairs and blocks – several plated for sheet positions – and important high-value varieties. A lifetime collection of Nova Scotia and Halifax postcards is included, along with the first instalment of a worldwide holding, primarily pre-Second World War. Guernsey and Jersey material further strengthens the international component, featuring essays, die proofs, plate proofs and errors seldom available on the open market.
Lot 1190 offers an extensive collection of 53 real photo patriotic postcards depicting Canadian ships and steamers, printed by Warwick Bro’s & Rutter in Toronto. Most are unused, with mailed examples dated 1907–1910.
Cloutier said the sale underscores Garden City’s growing reputation. “We’re very pleased with the diversity of material on offer,” he explained. “From Canadian varieties and early steamship covers to world-class postcard holdings, there is something here for collectors at every level.”
The auction will run across four sessions: Sept. 25 (Lots 1–500, Canadian stamps to KGVI), Sept. 26 (Lots 501–1006, QEII to post-war issues), Sept. 27 (Lots 1007–1407, postal history, postcards and literature), and Sept. 28 (Lots 1408–1692, Canada and worldwide collections). All lots are pictured online at StampAuctionNetwork, with bidding in Canadian dollars.