Newsletters

Neighbourhood - Kerrisdale Village

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:02:06 -0700

Travelling to All Nations Stamp and Coin will bring many people through Kerrisdale Village. If you don't, you should. There is free off-street 2 hour parking, long enough to tour the neighbourhood and even to stop for lunch.

Things to do in the Neighbourhood - Museum of Anthropology Grounds

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:00:59 -0700

The UBC Museum of Anthropology is one of Canada's foremost museums, renowned for its Northwest Coast collections and collaborative approach to working with First Nations and other cultural communities. In order to extend its role as a public and research institution, they have embarked upon a major expansion project, increasing the size by 50% by 2010, and creating unprecedented opportunities for research, teaching, and public enjoyment.

Things to do in the Neighbourhood - Southlands Nursery

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 12:34:05 -0700

If you do a Google search for Southlands Nursery, you will get dozens of results from horticultural specialist web sites writing about Southlands Nursery as the ultimate nursery in Vancouver. Even the San Francisco Chronicle did an article on visiting parks and gardens for Vancouver vacationers and listed Southlands Nursery as a must see.

Things to do in the Neighbourhood - Camosun Bog

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:48:42 -0700

Camosun Bog lies within Pacific Spirit Regional Park, on the west side of Vancouver. The bog is many things: a memento of the last ice age, a rare ecosystem, an open classroom , a scientific laboratory, and a fragile and beautiful urban wilderness. Human development in and around the area nearly destroyed the bog, until a concerned group of local nature lovers joined forces to save it.

Things to do in the Neighbourhood - UBC Farm in danger

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:47:23 -0700

There is a farm on the UBC campus. It is the only working farm left in the city of Vancouver. Surrounded by thick forest it can't be seen from the outside, in fact it doesn't even appear on some campus maps. And it seems that "out of sight is out of mind," as in 1997, UBC’s Official Community Plan was approved.

Things to do in the Neighbourhood - Visit UBC Botanical Garden

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:16:23 -0700

Founded in 1916, UBC Botanical Garden is the oldest continuously operated university garden in Canada.

Canada's Million Dollar Coin Arrives in Beijing.

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 12:32:47 -0700

Today, the Royal Canadian Mint's world-famous "Million Dollar Coin" made its Asian debut at Beijing's Olympic Expo 2008 (Olympex).

Canada Post Releases new BC 150 Stamp at Fort Langley

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 17:26:10 -0700

Fort Langley is the exact location where, a century and a half ago, a huge fur trade organization called the Hudson's Bay Company established a small post to trade with the First Nations of the West Coast. The enterprise grew, evolved, and influenced history, leading to the creation of the colony of British Columbia.

Do you believe in luck? - Royal Canadian Mint Issues 2008 Lucky Loonie

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:34:57 -0700

With the Beijing Olympic Games and Beijing Paralympic Games just around the corner, the Royal Canadian Mint is proud to issue the 2008 Lucky Loonie, the latest in its extensive Olympic themed circulation coin program. The one-dollar coin, which features the familiar loon landing in water and the official emblem of the Canadian Olympic Team, enters into circulation today.

Great Canadian Locomotives, The Royal Hudson

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:06:27 -0700

During the 19th century, a new mode of transportation began o redefine life for Canadians. Unlike a horse, it didn't get tired or hungry, Unlike a boat, it could still travel when the water froze in the winter. In fact, it could run day or night, pulling passengers and cargo across the land, sometimes as fast as 50 kph (31 mph)!

Canada Post and the City of New Westminster unveil a Raymond Burr commemorative stamp

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:19:44 -0700

Friends and family of Raymond Burr, including his 98 year-old cousin, were on hand at Century House in New Westminster today to witness the unveiling of a set of commemorative stamps entitled The Sequel, which celebrate the achievements of Canadians in Hollywood.

Canada Post finally announces Vancouver 2010 Olympic stamps

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:18:55 -0700

The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) and Canada Post today announced that Canada Post has been named an Official Supplier for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. From iconic sports imagery to the beloved Vancouver 2010 mascots - Sumi, Miga, and Quatchi - 2010 Winter Games-themed stamps will grace Canada's mail starting in December 2008.

Province Launches BC150 Commemorative Stamp and Book.

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:28:41 -0700

For some reason, the Government chose Friday the 13th to announce two items as part of the BC150 celebrations. The first is a stamp to be released by Canada Post on BC Day, August 1. The second is a book, British Columbia: Spirit of the People written by noted BC historian and bestselling author, Jean Barman, available in stores now. The ceremony was held in the Vancouver Public Library downtown main branch.

Royal Canadian Mint linked to Canadian Victoria Cross

Sat, 17 May 2008 12:43:03 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint is honoured to have participated in the production of Canada's very own Victoria Cross, fashioned of material from across Canada.

Royal Canadian Mint Spring Releases include Anne of Green Gables, Downy Woodpecker, and Triceratops coins.

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 14:02:10 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint is pleased to announce that adoring fans of Anne of Green Gables can now purchase the widely anticipated 25-cent collector coin bearing the colourfully painted image of the spirited heroine created by Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery exactly 100 years ago. Coin collectors and gift givers alike can also look into the Mint's newest offerings to find other exciting products, such as a new $4 silver dinosaur collection coin featuring Triceratops.

Royal Canadian Mint releases Freestyle Skiing 25¢ coin

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 14:01:04 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint officially released the second Olympic 25-cent circulation coin of 2008 on April 16th. The sport of freestyle skiing is depicted on the coin, which is the seventh of 17 circulation coins to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

All Nations settles into Dunbar / Southlands, movie.

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:14:12 -0700

On February 1, 2008, All Nations moved from downtown Vancouver to Dunbar / Southlands. After 2 months at the new location, we are happy to report that business is brisk and the weekly Saturday noon auctions are well attended.
Over the past 2 months we have shot some video to showcase the environs, visit some neighbours and partake in an auction.

Mafeking Siege Stamps and the beginning of the Boy Scouts Movement

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 20:16:01 -0700

The Siege of Mafeking was the most famous British action in the Second Boer War. It took place at the town of Mafeking (now Mafikeng) in South Africa, over a period of 217 days, from October 1899 to May 1900, and turned Robert Baden-Powell, who went on to found the Scouting Movement, into a national hero.

Royal Canadian Mint issues Snowboarding Quarter

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 08:40:11 -0800

The Royal Canadian Mint today officially released the first Olympic 25-cent circulation coin of 2008. The sport of snowboarding is depicted on the coin, which is the sixth of 17 circulation coins to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Olympic Venues Encrusted with Lucky Loonies

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:19:26 -0800

Last night on Global TV, being broadcast from Whistler all week as part of the "Two Years to Go" 2010 Olympic celebrations, John Furlong, the VanOC CEO confessed that "lots" of Olympic Loonies were being embedded in all the Olympic venues being built in Vancouver and Whistler.

2008 not too late for 007

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:37:16 -0800

On January 8, 2008, the British Post Office, still known as the Royal Mail, issued a series of Ian Fleming’s James Bond book cover stamps to celebrate the centenary of authour Ian Fleming's birth, and the 50th anniversary of the publication of Dr No, the first James Bond novel in a series of successful film versions.

Olympic Snowboard Quarters try out the Slopes

Sat, 09 Feb 2008 13:34:54 -0800

A truckload of 2010 Olympic Snowboarding Quarters en route from the Winnipeg Mint to Vancouver felt the Call of Nature Thursday evening. As the truck was rounding a curve on the Trans-Canada Highway just West of Kamloops, a patch of ice sent the truck into the ditch and the roof disintigrated under the pressure of millions of quarters, which spread down 9 meters of embankment.

The Dust Settles at the New Dunbar Store

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 13:33:20 -0800

After weeks of packing what must be millions of items into boxes, Sunday, January 27 was the day to move it all from the old shop in the Bay to the new store at Dunbar and 41st.

Canada Post Unveils Year of the Rat Stamps

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:39:42 -0800

Canada Post announces the 2008 Year of the Rat stamps at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Vancouver.

Royal Canadian Mint Celebrates 100th Anniversary

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 15:19:13 -0800

One hundred years ago today, Governor General Earl Grey activated the press to strike a fifty-cent piece, Canada's first domestically produced coin. What would become known as the Royal Canadian Mint was officially open for business.

Oscar Peterson, 15 August 1925 - 23 December 2007

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 10:22:07 -0800

Canada's luminary jazz pianist, honoured on a stamp for his 80th birthday, passed away yesterday. He was the only living person, other than the Royal Family to be honoured by Canada Post.

Vancouver 2010 Olympic Mascots

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:54:57 -0800

Vanoc has unleashed their Olympic mascots on us masses just in time for gift giving. And it appears that they'll be successful.

All Nations is Moving to Dunbar/Southlands

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 16:47:17 -0800

All Nations is going Upscale! Or at least uphill. After decades of serving Vancouver from the downtown core, All Nations Stamp and Coin will be moving in the New Year to the lovely Dunbar/Southlands neighbourhood. The new store will be located in what is now The Silver Shop at 5630 Dunbar St, just a few steps north of 41st Ave.

An Archive of Lucky Looonie Launches

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 17:04:34 -0800

In both 2004 and 2006, Vancouver was lucky enough to be the venue for the official unveiling of each year's official Lucky Olympic Loonies by the Royal Canadian Mint. Since we are rapidly approaching 2008, we wonder if the honour will be a three-peat.

Philip Timms' Vancouver: Photographs and postcards from 1900-1910

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:58:29 -0700

"Mr. Timms is a real Vancouver pioneer; handpicked, extra special, double refined and forty over proof." Mayor J.S. Matthews, City of Vancouver Archivist, perhaps best described Philip Timms.

Pucks drop on new Vancouver Canucks season

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:19 -0700

Just as the Vancouver Canucks take to the ice to start a brand new NHL season, the Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) is crashing the net with some exciting new NHL licensed products, featuring a special $1 coin adorned with the colour logo that is the pride of Vancouver fans everywhere. These new NHL licensed products from the RCM are a great way for Vancouver Canucks fans to show their true colours to fellow supporters and friendly rivals alike.

The Royal Canadian Mint Launches 25-cent Alpine Skiing Circulation Coin

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:15 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) today officially released the fifth of 17 circulation coins to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The sport of alpine skiing is depicted on the new 25-cent coin.

The Chris McGregor collection

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:24 -0700

Brian Grant Duff at All Nations Stamp and Coin is pleased to offer selections of leading local philatelist Chris McGregor's collection in upcoming auctions. Pictures of the item and the price realized will be added to this page as they occur.

The Royal Canadian Mint launches 25-cent biathlon circulation coin.

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:29 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) today officially released the fourth of 17 circulation coins to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The sport of biathlon is depicted on the 25-cent coin.

Vancouver Magazine's 40th Anniversary issue and Auction Movie

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:33 -0700

We were pleasantly surprised to discover that All Nations was listed in the September 2007, 40th Anniversary edition of Vancouver Magazine as one of the top 5 spots to go to an auction! Includes a movie of an auction.

Royal Canadian Mint Announces Olympic Bullion Coin Program

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:36 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) is pleased to announce that it has finalized an agreement with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) granting it permission to mint bullion coins bearing the emblem of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the famed rings of the Olympic Movement. This agreement is a first of its kind for the global bullion industry.

U.S. Issues Marvel Superheroes Stamps

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:39 -0700

On July 26, 2007, The United States Post Office issued a self-adhesive sheet of 20 Marvel Comics Superheroes 41c Domestic rate postage stamps, at the International Comic Convention in San Diego, California.

Hudson's Bay Company Archives Added to UNESCO Memory of the World Registry

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:43 -0700

Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson announced on June 21, 2007, that the Province of Manitoba’s Hudson’s Bay Company archives, covering the company’s history from 1670 to 1920, have been added to the United Nations’ Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Memory of the World Registry.

The Loonie is 20

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:47 -0700

What has 11 sides, is yellow-gold in colour, and is celebrating a birthday? Canada's iconic, modern one-dollar coin, commonly known as "the Loonie", turns 20 on June 30th.

Canada Post honours legendary singers Anka, Lightfoot, Mitchell, and Murray

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:50 -0700

It used to be that you had to be the head of government, or dead, or both, to appear on a stamp. The United States waited 15 years after his death to honour Elvis Presley, even though he was called the King.

Captain George Vancouver's Birthday Party

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:55 -0700

Vancouver's desire to make history probably came when he was an ambitious 16-year-old seaman serving on Captain James Cook's ship, the Resolution, during Cook's second great voyage.

Royal Canadian Mint issues Forget Me Not Flower 50c to promote Alzheimer's awareness

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 13:59:58 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Canada, is helping to recognize those touched by Alzheimer's disease with the release of its 2007 50-Cent Sterling Silver Golden Forget-Me-Not collector coin.

The World's Purest, Largest and Highest Denomination Gold Coin

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:00:03 -0700

The World Gold, PGM and Diamond Investment Conference took on a golden glow at the Vancouver Convention Centre yesterday and today. The source was the presence of the World's purest and largest gold coin.

Vanpex 2007

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:00:07 -0700

Philatelic exhibitions have served as a keystone of the BC Philatelic Society's activities since the "First International Exhibition" was held in 1925. Since then, the Society has managed to put on a show for most of those years, and in fact for the last 39 years collectors and exhibitors have been able to enjoy a show every year, without a break.

USPS Star Wars Commemorative Sheet

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:00:10 -0700

On May 25, 2007, the United States Post Office released a set of 15 41c stamps marking the 30th anniversary of the George Lucas film Star Wars.

Vancouver Postcard Club Show and Sale

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:00:13 -0700

The Vancouver Postcard Club held their annual show and sale on Sunday, May 27 at the Hastings Community Centre. As I drew close to the location, traffic ground to a standstill and I was cheered that so many people would be going to the show.

Canadian Banknote Artists dies

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:00:18 -0700

Leslie Sawyer, 86, the commercial artist that created the scenes for a series of iconic multicolored banknotes for Canada, passed away recently.

Poppy Quarter Spy Coin

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:15 -0700

On May 7, Associated Press issued a press release under the heading “Canada's poppy quarters caused sensational warnings of 'spy coins' in U.S.”

Royal Canadian Mint's Spring 2007 collectible coin lineup

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:18 -0700

"The Royal Canadian Mint is proud to introduce collector coins that continue to uphold our reputation for exceptional design, quality and technical innovation," said President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, Ian E. Bennett.

Canada Post plans Captain George Vancouver stamp

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:20 -0700

Canada Post issues a $1.55 stamp, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Captain George Vancouver’s birth, on 22 June 2007.

Vancouver Numismatic Society Money Show 2007

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:27 -0700

The Vancouver Numismatic Society held their annual two day Money Show, on March 31st and April 1st, 2007, at the Oakridge Mall Auditorium, in central Vancouver, B.C.

Great Western Stamp Show 2007

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:40 -0700

The Great Western Stamp Show enjoyed a new lease on life last weekend, under the auspices of new organizers John Attrell and Luciano Bassetto, and the Canadian Stamp Dealers' Associations, of which I am the B.C. Director. The three day stamp and postal history show took place in a new venue, Langley, B.C.'s Coast Cascades Hotel.

Auction #600 Results

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:43 -0700

Every Saturday, we host an auction board, featuring items of interest that we have found, including submissions from individuals. If you have been considering putting items up for auction, we would like to demonstrate the results you might expect by giving the results of Auction #600. All items were sold, realizing an average 83% return on estimated value.

Year of the Pig stamp errors make Lunar New Year a happy one for collectors

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:47 -0700

The 52c domestic rate year of the pig stamp has been found missing the silver and gold colours, so that the printing enhancements are not seen on the floral patterns decorating the pig.

Auction #600

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:55 -0700

All Nations Stamp and Coin, of Vancouver, Canada, is pleased to present their 600th auction of world stamps, coins, and related collectibles, in their showroom, on the fourth floor of the downtown Bay, on Saturday February 10, 2007, at 1pm

Royal Canadian Mint announces most ambitious Olympic Coin Program Yet

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:01:58 -0700

Starting on February 23, 2007, Canada’s Mint will begin circulating the first of 17 commemorative coins marking the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games. As many as 350 million Olympic themed coins will be made for circulation between now and 2010.

U. K. Issues Beatles Stamps

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:02 -0700

The United Kingdom issued a 10 stamp set devoted to the Beatles on January 9, 2007. The tribute stamps mark the first meeting of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, in a Liverpool Church, way back in 1957.

Royal Canadian Mint to circulate Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Quarters and Dollars

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:05 -0700

Canada will circulate commemorative Olympic coins, between 2007 and 2010, to celebrate the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia.

Year of the Pig

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:08 -0700

The Chinese Cultural Center of Greater Vancouver hosted a Canada Post stamp launch, which was attended by a number of dignitaries and the local Signals Design team of Kosta Tsetsekas and John Belisle, who also recently designed the Canadians in Hollywood issue.

The 2007 Royal Canadian Mint issues

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:11 -0700

The 2007 Royal Canadian Mint issues include the following non circulating legal tender coins made for collectors:

Vancouver Canucks Coin Set

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:14 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint has issued a 2006/2007 Hockey Season Vancouver Canucks Coin Set, featuring the team’s original hockey stick logo, now used for their third jerseys, on a colourized twenty five cents coin, only available in the 2007 dated collector coin set.

The 1897 Massey-Harris Dollar, an original find

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:18 -0700

Canada was just 30 years old. Queen Victoria had celebrated 60 years on the throne. In a letter, illustrated with a tom turkey, and dated 30 December 1897, the Massey-Harris Company gave a dollar bill, in lieu of a seasonal feast bird, to their employees at Toronto and Brantford.

Royal Canadian Mint Marks a Decade of $2 Coins with a new Mint Mark

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:20 -0700

At the Canadian Numismatic Association convention in Niagara Falls this weekend, Ian Bennett, the new President and C.E.O. of the Royal Canadian Mint, unveiled a new Mint Mark, which will start appearing on circulating coins, with a commemorative $2 coin, next month.

Collecting is Good for Your Health

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:24 -0700

The health benefits of collecting are not promoted enough. Collectors are often viewed as sedentary loners, and some solo time well spent with your collection is not a bad thing, but in fact, the thrill of the chase keeps collectors quite active.

Snowbirds coin and stamp set takes flight

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:27 -0700

Flanked by members of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, officials from the Royal Canadian Mint and Canada Post today officially unveiled a commemorative coin and stamp set that pays tribute to the famous Snowbirds precision aerial team at the Ottawa International Airport

Mint named as an official supporter of VANOC

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:29 -0700

The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) is pleased to announce the Royal Canadian Mint as an Official Supporter in the Minting of Circulation, Precious Metal and Base Metal Numismatic and Bullion Coins product and service category.

Vancouver Aquarium 50th Anniversary stamp

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:32 -0700

Whales seem to capture the imagination of children. Looking at this stamp brings out the kid in us all.

Canadians in Hollywood

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:37 -0700

For generations, Canadian Actors have followed the road to fame and fortune in Hollywood. Canada Post is honouring their accomplishments in film and television with a set of four domestic rate 51¢ stamps featuring memorable Canadian actors who became stars.

Vancouver street art celebrates the Hudson's Bay Company

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:40 -0700

Residents and visitors to downtown Vancouver now have another reason to appreciate the beauty of a city renowned for its spectacular setting.

Breast Cancer Awareness colourized quarter enters circulation

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:43 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint launched it's second colourized, circulating twenty five cents coin on March 31, 2006. 30 Million coins, bearing pink ribbons symbolizing hope for a cure for the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer found in Canadian women, are being distributed

Vanpex 2005

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:48 -0700

The theme of the Remembrance Day weekend show is The Year of the Veteran and Derren Carman has produced several different, limited edition, Show Covers. Only 50 of each are available.

Questionable Issue: Currency of the Holocaust

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:54 -0700

The exhibit, Questionable Issue: Currency of the Holocaust, consists of pieces of scrip (currency) issued at 13 Nazi concentration camps or ghettos, including Auschwitz, Dachau, Buchenwald, and the Warsaw Ghetto. This unique exhibit presents several authentic Holocaust artifacts that have never been publicly displayed in Canada before.

The New Orleans Mint

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:02:57 -0700

Hurricane Katrina has devastated New Orleans and our thoughts go out to the people there. It also brought to mind the fate of the old New Orleans Mint.

The Five Pound Jack Nicklaus

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:00 -0700

The Royal Bank of Scotland announced On July 12, that it was honouring legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus by issuing a special commemorative £5 banknote bearing his image. The note recognizes his Open Championship victories at St Andrews and stands for what his illustrious career has meant for the game of golf in Scotland and around the world.

Happy Birthday Oscar Peterson

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:03 -0700

When jazz aficionados speak of Oscar Peterson, words like "legendary ability", "greatest jazz pianist in the world", "brilliant technique", "unparalleled talent" are often used. Their list of descriptions give a glimpse into the incredible talents of one of the greatest musicians our country has ever produced. After today, that list will include the phrase, "honoured on a postage stamp."

Remembering "Smokey" Smith

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:06 -0700

Canadian war hero Ernest Smokey Smith was honoured in Vancouver Friday, as mourners paid their last respects before his funeral. Smith, who died last week at the age of 91, lay in state at his regiment, Vancouver's Seaforth Armoury. Throughout the day, relatives, veterans and members of the public filed past the flag-draped coffin of the man known as Canada's last surviving winner of the Victoria Cross.

Titanic Collectibles up for Auction

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:09 -0700

A trio of Titanic postcards, from a Vancouver estate, are being sold in All Nations' auction #523, at the downtown Vancouver Bay coin and stamp department, on Saturday July 30.

Vancouver Aquarium Stamp coming Next Year

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:13 -0700

Canada Post announced their 2006 commemoratives last week. Among them will be a new domestic rate stamp celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre.

Rare Colonial British Columbia Coins in Calgary Auction

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:16 -0700

The rarest set of North American coins, British Columbia 1862 Silver and Gold $10 and $20 coins, from the Sid and Alicia Belzberg collection, are being offered as one lot by Calgary auctioneer Stan Wright, on July 22, 2005 as part of Diverse Equities Canadian Numismatic Association sale. The presale estimate of $1.75 million puts these coins out of the reach of most collectors.

Susanna Blunt Designs a New Coin

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:20 -0700

Vancouver artist Susanna Blunt, whose new crownless portrait of the Queen already graces all of Canada's coins, has gone over to the other side and designed the tails side of a new coin also.

Allan Steinhart Collection Auction

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:22 -0700

The Allan Steinhart Collection of Prestamp and Stampless Covers, to, from, and through British North America 1685-1865 reaches auction block. The collection is being sold by Matthew Bennett International, in Zurich, Switzerland on Saturday May 28, 2005, in 1,600 lots.

Terry Fox continues to brin hopeone dollar at a time

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:25 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint held a launch ceremony for the unveiling of its new 2005 Terry Fox circulation coin. Held at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia, the ceremony was attended by Government and mint dignitaries, as well as members of Terry Fox's family, friends and Marathon of Hope associates.

Auction 500

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:28 -0700

Yesterday, All Nations held its 500th Saturday Auction. Ten years of fun! If you have never joined us for this weekly event, we offer you a sample of the kind of material we see and the deals that can be had.

Huffin and Puffin, about the Royal Canadian Mint's new Stylin

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:32 -0700

Is anyone else miffed by the Mint's new packaging? The Royal Canadian Mint has gone to one size fits all red plastic fold-out stand packages for the Brilliant Uncirculated and Proof Silver Dollars.

Canada Post Launch of Lunar New Year of the Rooster Stamps in Vancouver

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:35 -0700

Canada Post held a reception to mark the release of the new Year of the Rooster, 50c and $1.45 domestic and international rate, commemorative stamps, at the United Chinese Community Enrichment Services Society (S.U.C.C.E.S.S.) offices, at 28 West Pender Street, in Vancouver's Chinatown.

The Lemuel Owen Covers and Correspondence - an original find

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:38 -0700

The following covers related to Lemuel Owen, businessman, banker, shipbroker, Prince Edward Island Postmaster, and the Province's second Premier, are a small sample of a collection that passed through our hands recently.

Canada's Poppy Quarter

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:41 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint is attempting to circulate a coloured commemorative twenty five cent piece, marking Rememberance Day, observed here on November 11th, to celebrate the end of First World War hostilities.

Bank of Canada Unveils Bill Reid $20 Banknote

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:44 -0700

Bank of Canada hosted a multilingual hour-long spectacle unveiling the new Arts and Culture themed, high security $20 banknote, featuring artwork by Bill Reid and poetry by Gabrielle Roy.

Royal Canadian Mint Launches Lucky Loonie in Vancouver

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:48 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint hosted a public ceremony unveiling the 2004 Lucky Loonie Olympic commemorative, made for circulation, aureate dollar coin, at General Motors Place, in downtown Vancouver, on the morning of August 4th. It was a cleverly timed event designed as a send off for Canadian Olympic athletes shortly enroute to the Athens Olympic games.

Coins that Shine through the Darkness...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:50 -0700

Cleaning coins is a no-no. Humans are crows and shiny is better. All that glitters is gold. But the shine has to be there in the first place and not be enhanced.

McIntyre Stock goes Coast to Coast

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:03:55 -0700

The Canadian Stamp & Coin Dealing fraternity lost a longtime adherent early this year, but his stamp and coin inventory, built up over 32 years for his G.H. McIntyre Ltd. retail storefront, in Kingston, Ontario, lives on and has been dispursed from Coast to Coast.

Fastsellers Highlight Spring Royal Canadian Mint Issues

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:06 -0700

The Royal Canadian mint issued a half dozen new products in mid-April, two of which, the D-Day Five Cents, and Iceberg $20 apparently sold out quickly form the Royal Canadian Mint.

Great Western Auctions Lives up to name

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:10 -0700

There were 140 different buyers in the 887 lot public and mail-bid sale, and the single vendor, multi generational property brought 20% more than the presale estimate of $150,000.00, proving that the Vancouver market can still support auctions of this calibre.

Bank of Canada Unveils New Hundred Dollar Bill

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:13 -0700

Today, in well-organized launches across Canada, the Bank of Canada unveiled the third banknote in their new Canadian Journey series, a new, improved 21st Century Hundred Dollar Bill.

Canada Post 2004 Year of the Monkey Stamps inspire Monkey Mania

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:17 -0700

Canada Post ushered in the New Year and the Lunar New Year with a pair of remarkable new 49c and $1.40 issues, based upon the 16th Century Journey to the West tale, featuring the rebellious monkey king.

Instore Appearance by Susanna Blunt, the Royal Canadian Mint's new effigy artist

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:20 -0700

Susanna Blunt, the West Vancouver artist, whose crownless image of Queen Elizabeth II now graces Canada's new circulating and collector coins, is appearing in the coin and stamp department, on the fourth floor of the downtown Vancouver Hudson's Bay Store.

Great Western Auctions Announces Inaugural Stamp Auction

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:23 -0700

Great Western Auctions is selling the lifetime Jim Longbourne collection of Canada and World stamps, collections, and postal history in an unreserved, 1000 lot mail, internet, and public auction, on Saturday February 28, 2004.

Making Cents at the Mint...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:28 -0700

There are four different 2003 pennies circulating, featuring old and new portrait styles, and P and No P designations. If the Mint has switched to plating pennies since 1999, then why are we still producing no P pennies today?

Autumn Royal Canadian Mint Products Review

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:32 -0700

Where have all the holograms gone? The holograms disappeared first from the 2003 transportation series $20 coins, which mysteriously transformed into Aviation series-like gold cameo format coins.

Ancient Coin Art

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:35 -0700

If coins are high expressions of Ancient artwork, that reflect the beliefs and values of Greek and Roman societies, then contemporary coin art amplifies historic characteristics we can still learn from today.

Vancouver 2010 Olympic Stamp issue

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:38 -0700

Never has a stamp been front page news in the Vancouver Sun, Linn's Stamp News, and Canadian Stamp News all at the same time. Of course, there has never been a Canadian stamp like the new Vancouver 2010 48c self adhesive booklet issue.

To hinge or not to hinge?

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:41 -0700

An internet stamp hinge comparison chart, which was reproduced in a national biweekly stamp newspaper, got me thinking about the ongoing controversy over the use of stamp hinges.

Royal Canadian Mint Spring Line Review

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:50 -0700

First out were the new trio of Transportation coins, which surprisingly lost their holographic effects and reverted to a gold cameo format.

Canada Post Marks Queen's Coronation Golden Jubilee

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:53 -0700

On Monday, June 2, 2003, Canada Post issues a 48c commemorative stamp marking the fiftieth anniversary of the crowning of Queen Elizabeth the Second. It recycles last year's Golden Jubilee design, with a word change to Coronation, and a colour change from gold to royal purple.

Farewell to the Old Man of the Mountain

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:56 -0700

Sometime overnight on May 3, 2003, the cherished New Hampshire state symbol slipped from its rocky perch on the side of the mountain in Franconia Notch in the White Mountains.

Ancient coins of the Middle East

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:04:59 -0700

With much of the focus of the world on the Middle East and with the festivals of Passover and Easter upon us, it somehow gives us pause when we can actually hold in our hands, relics of that time.

Canucks Medallion Mania

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:05:02 -0700

The Vancouver Sun is promoting a new series of sports medallions depicting star players from the 2002/2003 Vancouver Canucks lineup. The colour photo player portraits superimposed on recycled card discs are being released one per day, and sold at select newspaper vendors.

Calling Nauru...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:05:06 -0700

According to the National Post, Nauru, an 8.5 square mile, or 21 square kilometer island, in the central western Pacific Ocean, between the Marshall and Solomon Islands, has suddenly lost contact with the outside world.

Signature Changes at Canada's Currency and Coinage Issuers...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:05:18 -0700

Both the Royal Canadian Mint and Bank of Canada have experienced recent staff changes, which will lead to autograph changes.

Graf Zeppelin 1929 World Tour Commemorative

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:05:22 -0700

The Graf Zeppelin ruled the uncluttered skies like no other monarch could. The sight of the silver ship gliding over head brought crowds of people streaming from their houses and into the streets. No other aircraft in history, with the possible exception of the Spirit of St. Louis, has been the focus of so much admiration by so many people.

What Year is it Anyway?

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:01 -0700

I am somewhat "baaffled" by the latest Royal Canadian Mint coin release, the sixth in an annual series marking Asian Lunar New Years.

Darnell First New Canadian Stamp Catalogue out for the Holiday Market.

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:08 -0700

After several years' absence, The Darnell Stamps of Canada Catalogue is back, in a 10th edition for 2003, just in time for the holiday season gift market.

Fruit of the Loon

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:11 -0700

2002 is shaping up to be the Year of the Loon thanks to our Royal Canadian Mint. The R.C.M. released three different Loon Commemorative issues this Looner New Year.

Nero Denarius

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:14 -0700

A distinctively Roman coin was the denarius, a silver coin nearly equivalent to the Greek drachm. We learn in Matthew 20 that it was a typical daily wage for a laborer, but the owner of the vineyard in this parable chose to be more generous.

Summer Roundup

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:17 -0700

The Summer is passing quickly in Vancouver as it always does. Summer highlights include the C.N.A. Coin Show here. Dealers reported great buying and selling.

All Nations Acquires Hamster Stamps Inventory

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:20 -0700

Saunders, a full time paramedic, who has been dealing in stamps at shows, and on eBay, for some years, has stepped back from frontline philatelics for now. All Nations, saw the opportunity to obtain a ready to retail dealers' stock as one not to be missed.

Newfoundland Specialized Stamp Catalogue

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:23 -0700

References are so valuable to collectors that many dealers say buy the book before you buy the collectible. The latest Newfoundland Specialized Stamp Catalogue, the brainchild of John Walsh, and the deceased John Butt, is another indispensible reference for Newfoundland collectibles enthusiasts.

Mint Releases New Fifty Cent Pieces...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:26 -0700

The merry, merry month of May saw a rash of new release fifty cent pieces from the Royal Canadian Mint. A quick sellout was a noncirculating legal tender Golden Tulip sterling silver boxed Proof fifity cents.

"Time Lord" Book Review

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:29 -0700

When I sat down to read Clark Blaise's 245 page 2001, Random House book, Time Lord, I expected a standard biography of the somewhat forgotten transcontinental railway engineer, Sandford Fleming. Stamp enthusiasts know Fleming as the designer of Canada's first postage stamp.

April Showers Bids on the V.N.S. Show Auction

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:33 -0700

The Vancouver Numismatic Society 2002 Coin Show Auction, conducted by All Nations, was held on Saturday April 20, 2002, in the Oakridge Shopping Center Seniors Auditorium, in central Vancouver.

Bank of Canada releases new $5 Note

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:38 -0700

The second note in the modernized Canadian banknote series has finally appeared. The new Five Dollar bill, originally scheduled for release last Summer, made its appearance this week.

Euro Overview

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:40 -0700

Most participating European Nations embraced the change and old coins and notes were quickly retired. Things went generally smoothly. The demand for outgoing coins and notes seems to have passed.

2002 Royal Canadian Mint Product review

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:43 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint has released most of their 2002 Collectible coins. Here is the rundown.

1840 Hudson's Bay Company 1 Shilling Note

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:45 -0700

Back in the 18th and early 19th century when Canada's wild west was the domain of the fur trapper and buffalo hunter, the only authority around was the Hudson's Bay Company.

Queen Elizabeth II Anniversary

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:48 -0700

Canada Post marks the 50th Anniversary of the reign of Queen Elizabeth the Second with a 48c commemorative stamp, available 2 January 2002 at Canadian Post Offices.

Unitrade Specialized Catalogue of Canadian Stamps 2002 Edition arrives.

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:51 -0700

After a two year hiatus, Unitrade had issued the new Canadian Stamp Price Guide. It is currently the only specialized Canadian Stamp Catalogue on the market.

Harry Potter Coins... Magic or Overkill?

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:53 -0700

Autumn 2001 brings a feature film debut for Harry Potter fans and six different Harry Potter themed Crown coins from the Isle of Man.

Great Britain Produces a Dynamite Set of Stamps

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:06:57 -0700

Among the latest U.K. stamp offerings is a must have set of six stamps marking the Nobel Prize Centenary. The Dutch Printers have used six different printing processes--one for each Nobel Prize category commemorated.

An Indispensible Reference

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:00 -0700

The 2002, 14th Edition, Charlton Canadian Government Paper Money Catalogue is one of the best and most popular price guides and handbooks that we sell.

Raking up the leaves...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:03 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint turned over two new leaves this Autumn in their expanding bullion/collectibles series.

Marconi

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:06 -0700

The British Royal Mint and Royal Canadian Mint have jointly released a two coin set commemorating the centenary of Guglielmo Marconi's first Transatlantic wireless transmission.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:09 -0700

Canada's 134th birthday was the perfect occasion for our nation to honour the Kennedy of Canada, Canada's 15th Prime Minister, Pierre Trudeau, with a stamp commemorating his life.

To P or Not To P That is the Question...

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:15 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint has caused P-demonium among coin buffs by using a new P for steel plated mint mark.

We Like William Shakespeare

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:18 -0700

To quit or not to quit? That is the question. Many long term collectors feel now is the time to wrap up their collections. 1999 and 2000 were popular cutoff years.

Universe Awash With Oriental Lunar New Year Trinkets

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:23 -0700

The Lunar New Year has become a great focus for collectibles marketing. The Royal Canadian Mint now produces coins and stamps to commemorate this annual event.

Canada To Inaugurate What Could Be Finest Notes in Recent History

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:26 -0700

The Bank of Canada launched the first in a new series of bank notes today. The themes of the notes in the new series, entitled Canadian Journey, reflect Canadians' views of their culture, history, and achievements, said Gordon Thiessen, Governor of the Bank of Canada, as he unveiled the $10 note at the Bank.

Mule Mania

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:30 -0700

The Royal Canadian Mint had had more than its fair share of mismatched die errors during 1999 and 2000. 2001 dawns with an active mule market.

Let Us Collect Our Thoughts

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:33 -0700

As our final newsletter of 2000, let us digress and reflect upon an often overlooked area of collecting, which is the fellowship added to one's life by belonging to a club and participating in its events.

Collectophilia

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:36 -0700

Collectors love the idea of having something the kid down the block doesn't have. Never mind keeping up with the Joneses, collecting can be a classic case of one upmanship.

Birds of a Feather Stick Together

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:39 -0700

Having just spent a cool, but sunny December Sunday counting ducks and company in Vancouver's Stanley Park, I feel compelled to report on the Christmas Bird Count. The hobby of bird watching compares favourably with stamp or coin collecting.

Annoying Habits of Otherwise Intelligent People

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:42 -0700

In these days of internet commerce, it is easier than ever to expose goods for sale to the retail (or at least right) marketplace. This, however, despite the highly touted potential for success is not as easy at it seems.

The New Charlton Catalogue is Now Available

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:45 -0700

About two weeks ago the 13th Edition (2001) of the Charlton Standard Catalogue of Government Paper Money hit the stores for sale. It is published by the Charlton Press and has 305 pages.

The Numbers Game - Bank of Canada Archive Auction

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:48 -0700

As nearly everyone involved in the numismatic collectibles field in Canada knows, the Bank of Canada has been selling off their archives of specimen banknotes.

Getting In Line by Going Online

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:51 -0700

Our hobbies are in transition. Linn's Stamp News blames the internet for the decline of major city newspaper stamp columns. Clients claim stamp shows and internet auctions mean mom and pop operated store closures. Having a web site means you can visit our store even when we are closed for Remembrance Day.

Colonies and Provincialism in the 21st Century

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:55 -0700

Collectors are the custodians of handfuls of history. We acquire artifacts, arrange them to allow ourselves a sense of control in a chaotic world, then pass them along to the next generation of collectors. Incredible pieces of history often cross our desks.

Commerce and Camaraderie

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:07:58 -0700

Perhaps we should rechristen stamp shows "stamp socials" and ask the dealers and exhibitors to supply the coffee instead of having to move and expose their wares unprofitably.

Forgeries and Speculation Markets

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:08:01 -0700

The Globe and Mail posited that the unique British Guyana Penny Magenta may be an altered four penny fake. This theory is likely being promoted by the disgruntled German forger and opera buff whose Penny Magenta rival has twice been discounted. Last I heard, the rare British Guyana stamp was in a vault while its owner Dupont did time for manslaughter.

The Importance of Authentication

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 14:08:05 -0700

Authentication is always a theme in our retail store, but this past week has been unusually active on the verification front. Collectors and hopeful treasure hunters routinely visit our store with items for sale. Two questions immediately arise. Is the article for sale real? What is it worth?