Michael Rogers merges with Daniel F. Kelleher Auctions

The firm of Daniel F. Kelleher, one of philately’s oldest names, has announced a merger with Michael Rogers, a leader in the burgeoning field of Asian philately.

In a press release dated July 9, the two firms, based respectively in Connecticut and Florida, called their link-up “historic,” and said Rogers would remain with the combined firm as an active buyer, particularly of Chinese and Far Eastern material, traveling around the United States to examine and purchase collections.

Mail-order sales and auctions already in the works will continue as planned under each firm’s respective name.

“The great long range future of philately lies in Asia,” said Kelleher co-chairman David Coogle.

Kelleher’s other co-chairman, Laurence Gibson, is a former colleague of Rogers, having worked with him for several years beginning in the 1990s.

In addition to holding stamp auctions under its own name, Kelleher operates Dynasty Auctions, which has found success in Hong Kong. Philately has been growing in popularity in China, with prices booming in recent years.

“As part of our merger with Michael, we will soon inaugurate a new site, Michael Rogers Online, which will feature monthly auctions of Asian, United States and worldwide stamps and covers,” wrote Coogle in the press release.

Last year, Rogers was named to the American Stamp Dealers Association hall of fame in recognition of his 40 years as a specialist dealer, auctioneer and writer on the subject of Asian philately.

Rogers has written a monthly Linn’s column, Asia Philately, for the past 25 years.

Rogers plans to close his longtime office in Winter Park, near Orlando, and relocate to a new office in southern Florida.

“I had discussions with a number of suitors after I made the decision to enter a new phase of my philatelic career,” said Rogers. “I love philately and this wonderful business far too much to retire.”

Rogers reportedly entertained several offers before agreeing to a seven-figure deal with Kelleher.