Our founder, Tony Buckingham, recognised worldwide as a leading authority on first day and commemorative covers and winner of the prestigious Rowland Hill Award for his contribution to philately. Together with his wife Cath, Tony founded Benham (the UK’s largest cover publisher) until he sold the company in 1997. He edited Collect FDC for nearly 20 years and served on the Philatelic Trade Society Council. He was a regular contributor to Stamp Magazine, Gibbons Stamp Monthly and other leading collectables publications.
Sadly, in May 2016, Tony passed away. He died of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a cruel disease which sapped his strength and energy towards his last days. He is deeply missed by his family, friends and colleagues.
Tony was a most inspirational man who touched the lives of many people. Through his efforts and creativity, he was able to donate £1million to various charities throughout his life. But the one he didn't support was the one he most needed at the end, the British Lung Foundation.