Some News and Views. . .

   We are very pleased to present our May 14th auction catalogue. Over the years many of our bidders have asked how we produce such a gigantic catalogue every eight weeks.

   Except for the actual printing, the entire production is done right here at Vance Auctions. Between the time that we acquire new material and the time that we can offer it to you, many steps are taken. Each lot is carefully described by one of our lotters, and the description is then typed and proofread. Thousands of lots are scanned. After the lots are filed and the lot numbers are assigned, the descriptions are all linked together to form two versions of the catalogue - one that is published in print and one that is published on the internet. It takes weeks of work by our dedicated staff to bring each auction to you. By the time that you read this, our next catalogue will be well underway.

   Every collector has favourite stamps, each appealing for different reasons such as the design, the engraving, or the subject matter. These are my three favourite stamps:

Canada 50¢ Bluenose, Scott #158 - Issued in 1929, this majestic stamp depicting the famous Bluenose fishing schooner is my all time favourite. Its beautifully engraved design exemplifies three aspects of Canadian maritime life: fishing, ship building, and seamanship. The second ship in the background is actually another depiction of the Bluenose, paying homage to the successful racing career that made her famous around the world.


Great Britain £1 PUC, Scott #209 - This mighty stamp embodies the power of the British Empire. Though large for a stamp, the amount of detailed engraving in this small area makes it a miniature masterpiece. Issued in 1929 to commemorate the 9th Universal Postal Union Congress held in London, its allegorical design
of St. George slaying the dragon represents Britain triumphing over her enemies.

United States $1 Cattle in Storm, Scott #292 - This engraved stamp might be the most beautiful American commemorative ever issued. One of a series of stamps issued to celebrate the Trans-Mississippi Exposition held in Omaha Nebraska in 1898, its central vignette is based on a painting by J.N. McWhirter. At that time it was unusual for a stamp’s design to show such motion. You can almost hear the thundering hooves.