The Illustrated Philatelic Dictionary

A Must-Have for Every Stamp Collector

Whether you’re new to stamp collecting or a lifelong philatelist, Trajan Publishing’s Illustrated Philatelic Dictionary is an essential addition to your reference library.

Proudly made in Canada — from concept and content to design and printing — this full-colour, 96-page softcover volume features nearly 500 clearly written definitions covering both classic and modern philatelic terminology.

What truly sets this dictionary apart is its rich visual presentation. Authored by long-time Canadian Stamp News contributor Ian Robertson, the book is filled with vibrant illustrations, including scanned stamps and postal history items, that enhance and clarify each entry. These images are not decorative — they are educational tools designed to help collectors better understand the terms they encounter in catalogues, exhibits, club discussions and auction listings.

Unlike older, often out-of-print references, this up-to-date dictionary reflects today’s collecting landscape while respecting philately’s deep historical roots. It includes Canadian-specific terminology, historical context, lesser-known entries from decades past and even modern philatelic slang — including the memorable “toilet paper” entry referencing Austria’s unusual pandemic-era stamp issue.

Developed through years of research and collaboration between Ian Robertson and the Trajan Publishing team, this book is more than a glossary — it is a celebration of the hobby. Thoughtfully edited and attractively designed, it functions equally well as a quick-reference guide or an engaging cover-to-cover read.

Whether you are a collector, dealer, exhibitor or enthusiast, The Illustrated Philatelic Dictionary will quickly become a trusted companion in your philatelic journey.

Add this proudly Canadian publication to your library today.