Knowledge is Power

Sir Francis Bacon Said That  (Not a Well-Known Australian Stamp Dealer!)

The number of philatelic publications available to collectors is mind-boggling and can be overwhelming. 

Unless you're a basic, worldwide collector, it's important to keep your library up to date with catalogues other than Stanley Gibbons, Scott, Michel, Yvert & Tellier and the other majors.

I've been on a bit of a shopping spree, and these are the additions to my bookshelf this month!

Stefan Heijtz is the acknowledged expert in Falkland Islands philately, and his catalogue is simply marvellous.   Profusely illustrated in colour, with values based on auction and retail sales, this is a must-have for anyone with more than a passing interest in Falklands philately

As I'm also a collector of cinderellas and recently came across some scarce early Lundy material, I purchased the Lundy Island catalogue. It lists all printings, quantities and varieties, and everything is priced. Believe me, the early material is very much sought after!

Shameless Self-Promotion!

Falkland Islands Gems on Ebay

I'm breaking down a life-long collection of Falklands Islands and have a lot of Postal Stationery listed at the moment, like this

This is Higgins & Gage (H&G) 4, Queen Victoria reply card, overprinted Specimen, one of only 750 produced. Starting at 99p here

Over the next few days, I'll be listing a range of early Falklands stamps and more covers. Please drop in and add me to your favourite sellers if these items appeal to you!

GB Victorian Perfin - Can You Help?

I recently came across these two GB SG71 ½d vermilions, which were obviously a separated pair.

They are perfinned with the word "INVENTION" in an arc similar to the perforated Specimens. 

Can anyone assist with identification of this perfin? Was it a test (if so, they were postally used), or was there a business with this unusual name?

The GB Perfin Society website hasn't shed any light on this one, so any help would be greatly appreciated!