1897 Diamond Jubilee Issue (Canadian stamps)

Canada's first commemorative set, June 19, 1897 Sixteen values, from half a cent to five dollars, all carrying the same double portrait of Queen Victoria as a young queen in 1837 and in her jubilee year. The five-dollar stamp was the highest face value Canada had ever issued, and the first day of sale at Toronto's main post office got so heated that police reinforcements were called. For a collector, this set is the classic test of patience and budget. The low and middle values are attractive and affordable, while the dollar values are serious purchases, especially in fine unused condition. Building the set one stamp at a time, and checking each for centering, is a rite of passage in Canadian collecting.