T1801

William T. Piper

Aviation Businessman

Collins Cover Announcement 

WILLIAM PIPER

U.S. Airmail - Forty Cents

This stamp honors the man who manufactured the world-famous Piper Cub. They were produced in unprecedented numbers and were easily recognized by their familiar yellow color. The original name of the plane first flown on September 2, 1930 was the Brownbach Tiger Kitten. Piper felt the plane was too flimsy so he replaced the engine with a 37-horsepower E-2 cub. The plane was approved for flight on June 15, 1931 and the Piper Cub was born. William Thomas Piper was born at Knapp Creek, NY on January 8, 1881 and died at Lock Haven, PA on January 15, 1970.

My hand-painted cachet shows a cub flying over autumn woodlands. A serene river, over which a railroad trestle spans, adds an interesting perspective to the scene and complements the blue color of the stamp. A large magenta bullseye unofficial First Day cancel from the Denver Air Mail Facility Station, which was only obtainable on actual issue date, ties the stamp to the cover. A nice philatelic item.

William Piper -- a true giant in aviation history. A colorful hand-painted cachet with a cruising cub. A wonderful "aviation theme" First Day cancel actually obtained on date of issue at the Denver Airport. A solid COLLINS FDC. Item #T1801. $9.75.