Member Profile

The Bramalea Stamp Club profiles club member Steve Johnson.

Steve has been a club member since 2001. His stamp interests include Canadian mint singles, New Zealand mint and used, and Souvenier Sheets from around the world. Read the following question/answer session we had to find out more.

When did you first start collecting stamps?

My dad introduced me into the hobby when I was about 10 years old. He started his collection after Expo 67 and progressed from there. One of my highlights was during summer vacation. We would go to the Toronto Exhibition every year to see the "Stamp Building", as I called it. We would spend hours looking and buying mint and used stamps. I stopped collecting stamps in my teens and twenties, but now I have re-discovered my energy in collecting. For that, I have to thank E-bay. I went on the auction site just to see what the fuss was all about. I saw the link for stamps and decided to see what was available. Wow, did my eyes open up. I put a bid on a couple of auctions and managed to win a few. That was the hook.

What's the best part about stamp collecting?

The best part for me is being able to share the hobby with my dad. We talk alot about our likes our dislikes, what I have been winning, not winning on ebay. It's been great. My uncle also collects stamps so when the 3 of us get together its like our own little club hahaha.

What are some of your stamp favorites in your collection right now?

My goal has always been trying to collect the best Canadian mint-never hinged collection possible. However, I am pretty realistic knowing full well that it probably won't ever happen haha. But, I do have many favorites.

The admiral series is my favorite. So many different varieties, coils, imperferations. Just a fun series overall. I would like to get them in the condition of the 5c violet, but really, is that possible?

This is one of my all time favorites. It is a classic design and rich full color with crisp gum. There is something about the older stamps that I really enjoy. They have a certain "character" to them.

This is another stamp I really like. When I first started collecting, I always wanted it. I really can't explain why except that the color is deep and rich.

This stamp is the first mint stamp I bought. It is the only stamp I have in my collection that has a mint, used, plate block, and overprint copy. To me, a stamp doesn't have to be worth $1000's to have value.

New Zealand is my second country I collect. Collecting one country can be pretty limiting, so I needed to broaden my horizons. I really like the new stamps New Zealand Post have been issuing.

What is the best part being a member of a stamp club?

I am a novice collector. I would just collect Canada, and not give it a second thought. Now, I can see what other people collect and have it broaden my horizons. I can also learn and get a better understanding what collecting is all about it. It is also great to listen to the experiences of more advanced collectors. Most of all, I have fun. To be a part of a group with the same interest and share a few hours of laughs.