Did you know?
This month marks the 100th anniversary of the modern First Day Cover.
You may be asking: what is a First Day Cover?
In simple terms, a First Day Cover is a special commemorative postmark issued on the first day a new stamp is released by the Post Office.
To celebrate 100 Years of the first modern First Day Covers, we are highlighting a few First Day Covers in today's newsletter.
Before we get to that, a little history on the modern First Day Cover.
On August 2, 1923, President Warren G. Harding died suddenly. At the time, he was beloved by many. An estimated three million mourners gathered to watch his funeral train pass by.
The New York Times called it “the most remarkable demonstration in American history of affection, respect, and reverence for the dead.
As was customary, the U.S. Post Office immediately began work on a memorial stamp to be issued on September 1, 1923.
George Linn, who would later found Linn’s Stamp News, greatly admired Harding and wanted to do something special to mark the stamp’s issue.
He chose to print a five-line cachet (distinguishing mark) on a variety of envelopes to affix the stamps to. He drove to Marion, Ohio to get his envelopes canceled.
Linn’s covers are traditionally considered the beginning of modern First Day Covers.
The USPS has put together a guide how to order your First Day Cover as well, which is available here.
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A special word of thanks to Sylvia M who provided us with these beautiful First Day Covers. Through her ongoing generosity, she took it upon herself to purchase these and sent them our way. Thank you Sylvia for your ongoing support and generosity towards the Christopher Arndt Postcard community!
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