U501

Touro Synagogue

 Synagogue Built in 1763

Collins Cover Announcement 

TOURO SYNAGOGUE

This is a very significant issue as it commemorates the establishment of the first permanent synagogue in the U.S. in the year 1763. The hand painted cachet is done in colors that compliment those in the stamp, and it is a very nice looking cover. FDCs of this historically important issue will always be sought after by many collectors, and the COLLINS cover will certainly be one of the more popular and desirable.

On the Sunday morning of August 22nd, my son and I flew to Providence where we rented a car and drove to Newport. The traffic into town was incredible as there was a boat show and music festival scheduled. Newport is a beautiful and historic town, and I'd recommend it highly for a visit.

Unofficials are often tough to obtain on holidays or Sundays since most post offices are closed. In this case, a good related unofficial was readily available in Providence as the main P.O. has a window open on Sundays. Roger Williams secured title to the site from Narragansett chiefs in 1636 and named it in gratitude for "God's merciful providence”. In addition, one of the definitions of the word providence is "the benevolent guidance of God" so it truly is a great unofficial for this issue dealing in the foundations of religious freedom and importance in America. The Providence cancel itself is a large, clear bullseye, and the balance of the cover with the cachet, two stamps, and two hand cancels is excellent. Item No. U501 - $5.50