Canada: Its Postage Stamps and Postal Stationery   By: Clifton Armstrong Howes (1872-)

In "Canada: Its Postage Stamps and Postal Stationery" by Clifton Armstrong Howes, readers are taken on a comprehensive journey through the rich history and fascinating world of Canadian philately. This meticulously researched book serves as an invaluable resource to stamp collectors, historians, and enthusiasts alike.

Howes' expertise in the field is evident from the very beginning as he introduces readers to the origins of postage stamps and their significance in the development of the Canadian postal system. He expertly weaves together a narrative that captures the evolution of Canadian postal services, exploring their growth in tandem with the nation's history.

One of the book's strengths lies in its meticulous organization. Howes divides the content into logical sections, making it easy for readers to navigate through different periods in Canadian philately. Each chapter is thoughtfully structured, providing a comprehensive overview of various stamp issues and their corresponding postal stationery items, such as envelopes and postcards.

The inclusion of high-quality photographs is another highlight of this book. The vivid images allow readers to marvel at the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and artistic elements present in Canadian stamps throughout the years. Additionally, these visuals aid collectors in identifying and cataloging their own collections accurately.

Despite its focus on stamps and postal stationery, Howes incorporates elements of broader Canadian history, offering readers a deeper understanding of the context in which these philatelic items were produced. This integration of history and philately elevates the book beyond a mere collector's guide, making it an engaging read for anyone interested in Canadian culture and heritage.

Furthermore, Howes' writing style strikes a balance between providing detailed philatelic information and maintaining a level of accessibility for readers of varying expertise. Though he delves into technical descriptions of stamp production methods, perforations, and watermarks, he manages to explain these concepts in a manner understandable to novices while still satisfying the curiosity of stamp experts.

Perhaps the only drawback of this book is its limited availability. As a niche publication, it may not reach as wide an audience as it deserves. Nevertheless, for those interested in Canadian philately or seeking an in-depth examination of the country's postal history, Howes' work is an essential addition to their library.

In conclusion, "Canada: Its Postage Stamps and Postal Stationery" by Clifton Armstrong Howes is a delightful and informative exploration of Canadian philately. Through meticulous research, captivating visuals, and a well-crafted narrative, Howes provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the stamps and postal stationery that have shaped Canada's postal system and rich history. This book undoubtedly stands as an indispensable resource for stamp collectors and history enthusiasts interested in delving into the world of Canadian philately.

First Page:

Page KEY TO PLATES 4 FOREWORD 9 INTRODUCTION 11 CHAPTER I. Preliminary Matters 18 " II. The Issue of 1851 28 " III. The Remaining Pence Issues 46 " IV. The Perforated Pence Issues 68 " V. The Cancellations of the Early Issues 77 " VI... Continue reading book >>