P1801

Savings Bonds

50th Anniversary

Collins Cover Announcement 

U.S. SAVINGS BONDS

During World War II, patriotic posters with military themes were used to raise funds for the war effort. Today's U.S.

savings bonds were preceded by war bonds that were sold during this great global conflict. Such a poster is the subject of my hand-painted cachet.

Two G.I.s are in the foreground -- one charging with fixed bayonet and one about to throw a hand grenade. Behind them, lush tropical plant growth suggests that they are in the Pacific Theater. Overhead, formations of bombers streak across the sky towards their targets.

What makes this cachet particularly attractive is that I've tried to capture the "Hollywood style" that these posters emulated. Very bright and snappy colors. Larger than life heroes. A positive theme with a positive objective. In this case, to foster nationalism in order to raise funds for the American military effort. And, in World War II, our citizens certainly came through in support of our troops.

The new savings bond stamp features a large rendition of a bald eagle. It is colorful, dignified, and well executed. I feel it is one of the year's best issues. To cancel this stamp in a fitting manner started with a brief 50 minute flight to Washington, D.C. After buying the stamps, it was a quick turn-around back from the nation's Capitol. It was then on to obtain the actual First Day postmarks at Normandy Beach, NJ. This cancel will recall the beginning of the end for Hitler's war machine -- the landing of Allied Forces on "D-Day" at the beaches of Normandy. The cancel itself is a large bullseye of excellent quality.

This COLLINS is a solid philatelic item. A very colorful military cachet done in the style of a promotional poster for the sale of war bonds. A well designed stamp, with eagle, commemorating the 50th Anniversary of U.S. Government savings bond sales. And, an outstanding First Day postmark from Normandy Beach, N.J. Item #P1801. $9.50.