First Day Cover Artwork

A first day cover  (FDC) is the envelope that carries the newly issued postage stamps that were cancelled on their first day of issue.  Many first day cover cards and envelopes carry artwork, such as the first day covers featured in this exhibit.  More...

The first day of issue  is the day on which a postage stamp  or stamped envelope  is officially put on sale in the country where it was issued.  The stamp or stamped envelope carries a first day of issue postmark  and cancellation that indicates the city and date where the stamp was first issued. The US Post Office may hold first day ceremonies to launch the stamp and honor its subject, such as President Truman’s dedication, in Everglades National Park, of the Everglades commemorative stamp.

Covers such as envelopes and postcards with detailed illustrations of Everglades scenes, flora, fauna and people carry the Everglades commemorative stamp and postal markings.