Lot 551

1918, War Savings, 3c orange French issue, near full original gum, a fresh and well-centred mint example of good colour, rare and fine to very fine; with 2003 van Dam certificate. The Canada 1918 Thrift Stamp program was a First World War initiative designed to encourage citizens - particularly children - to save small amounts of money to support the war effort. Launched by the National War Savings Committee, it served as a "micro-investment" gateway for people who could not afford to buy more expensive Victory Bonds or War Savings Certificates upfront. As cards were filled, they could be traded up to the next level of savings type.