G2305

Locomotives

Buchanan's No. 999

Collins Cover Announcement

EARLY LOCOMOTIVES

Buchanan's No. 999 - 1893

Railroad and train topicals are always favorite collectibles and this cover is my first for the Early Locomotive issue. I should be clear that in the research stage for this mini-series I decided that I would not stick to the engines on the stamps for my cachet designs. In fact, the side views presented on the stamps do a fine job of displaying that particular locomotive. Rather, I decided that I would approach the subject matter on a general basis and present a variety of settings and views of the early Age of Rail.

This first cachet is rather dynamic as it is a close-up of a steaming locomotive as it enters a curve. There is a brief glimpse of a hilly terrain and blue sky with rose-colored clouds but just to give a feeling of depth perception. There is no doubt as to the focal point of this hand-painted cachet -- the speed, power, and size of the engine as it roars down the track.

Several collectors have indicated to me that they are anxiously awaiting these FDCs. This one could be gone fairly early or it may stick around awhile, but if you are at all a railroad buff, be sure to get then early as I announce them. A quick sell-out is a possibility.

The engineer leans over the controls and surveys the up-coming curve. Smoke from the steaming engine curls up-ward. Flying wheels skim over the iron rails. Buchanan's No. 999. Item #F2305. $10.75.

Autumn 2022 Mail Sale Commentary 

G2301 to G2305 — Early Locomotives (7-28-94)

I can't remember the last time I saw these fantastic railroad cachets available on the open market, and they have never been in one of my Mail Sales before. For the Hudson's General stamp (G2301), the hand painted cachet shows an exciting close-up of a powerful steam locomotive. An old-time railroad yard is featured for the McQueen's Jupiter stamp (G2302). For the Eddy's Number 242 (G2303), I show a high trestle bridge with a train crossing. Emerging from a tunnel to the delight of spectators is an early locomotive for the Ely's No. 10 stamp (G2304). And to close out the set is a fabulous close-up of a mighty steam engine with an open track ahead for the Buchanan's No. 999 stamp (G2305). I can't emphasize enough how fast this set sold out when first offered and how difficult it is to find them now. Forest green borders on all five bind the set together. Perhaps the finest Collins railroad covers to date.