An article in local Dunbar Life magazine about Firmin Wyndels, the new owner of All Nations Stamp and Coin, and his passion for stamps and postal history Dunbar Life: A New Beginning for an Iconic Business

Dunbar Life: A New Beginning for an Iconic Business

“..Firmin Wyndels  runs Weeda Stamps and Garden City Philatelic Auctions in Victoria, supported by 10 full-time staff. He lives just north of the city with his wife, Rachel, and their four children. In 2021, he took over the 52-year-old Weeda Stamps and says, “I am leaning on what I learned the first time around.”

“Collecting is in my blood.”

Stamps have been a part of Firmin’s life since he was five years old. He was introduced to the hobby by his grandfather, and by 18, he was taking tables at local stamp shows, an interest that steadily evolved into a career.

“I have been very fortunate to have a supportive wife and understanding (sort of) kids who tolerate my endeavours,” Firmin says. “Besides stamps, I have a passion for collecting studio pottery from B.C. and Alberta potters.”

Firmin will be the face of All Nations although he won’t be there daily. A right-hand man will be at the store, becoming a familiar face for visitors.

Following the transfer of ownership, Firmin plans only subtle changes while he familiarizes himself with the operations and customers. “There is no sense in trying to fix something that isn’t broken,” he says, “but at the same time, I can lean on the practices of both the Victoria and Vancouver operations to find what works best and improve both.”

New inventory comes from a variety of sources, often from estates or collectors deciding to downsize their collections. Firmin has been fortunate to have individuals and businesses looking out for him, referring collections his way from across Canada, knowing the original owners will be treated fairly.