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December 31, 2001 - "The Squared Circle Cancellations of Canada" (Fifth Edition)
BNAPS Squared Circle Study Group Spiral bound
edited by John S. Gordon, 2001 334 pages 8.5" x 11"
This book continues in the tradition of the previous handbooks, and essentially updates
the fourth edition with new information obtained from the study group over the last
twenty years. In addition the editor, Mr. John S. (Jack) Gordon (study group editor
since 1996), has added value to the user by discussing the relative commonness of the
time marks, listing those stamps on which the collector is likely to find each marking,
and mentioning the other canceling devices used concurrently in those offices. For those
unfamiliar with previous editions, each squared circle town is listed, with an enhanced
illustration of the proof strike, earliest and the latest use report, quantity reported,
rarity factor, time marks, continuity of use, on selected stamps, error indicia, and other
notations as appropriate. There is also a short geographical locator description, population
figure, and postmaster's name. The reader thus has comprehensive updated information on all
of the squared circle towns. Readers may be surprised to learn that since the publication
of the fourth edition in 1981, a second hammer has been discovered for Calgary.The author
has dedicated this fifth edition to Dr. William G. Offal, co-editor of the fourth edition,
who took over the study group leadership from Dr. Whitehead (editor of previous editions
and the father of squared circle collecting), a fitting and just tribute. It is noted
that he has expanded the introductory section beyond the basic definitions to include
discussion on multiple-hammer towns, damaged hammers, indicia errors, later revivals,
etc. I found the saga of the proof strikes (repeated from the second edition) as
interesting as when first learned years ago. Reading these few introductory pages,
the novice can thus experience the world of squared circle collecting.
The meat of the book is of course the data on each of the 350 hammer towns or stats for
a total of 225 pages. There is more than just updated information. An expanded
"misplaced and unusual indicia error" listing is noted, in addition to the
previously-mentioned time-mark scarcity discussion. There is ample space for
collectors to pencil in updates and other remarks. The barred circle cancels
continue to be included, but at the back of the book. Included also (as Appendix A)
are the roster totals, with separate breakout for 3 cents Jubilee and 2 cents Map
stamp (on stamp and on cover). This has proven to be popular with those wishing to
sell their cancels in order to show their rarity. Appendix B shows years of continuity
of use, Appendix C is a checklist for selected stamps. Appendix D is a checklist for
varieties. New is Appendix E, a listing of proof dates.
Considering the wealth of information provided, the price is very reasonable by today's
standard, and no doubt kept low by use of the spiral binding. As a working reference
(at dealer tables for example), I find it difficult to use due to the soft covers,
unless one has a flat surface to lay it on. An improvement and presumably not an
expensive matter would be a stiffer cover (at least for the back). This book is a
labour of love and dedication by the author and to a lesser extent those study group
members who have contributed by their input. The editor Jack Gordon is to be greatly commended.
Bill Wegman
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