U2301

Definitive Issue

G Flags

Newt Gingrich

Collins Cover Announcement 

GOP Takes control of Congress

Gingrich Becomes Speaker of the House

For the "E" stamps back in March of 1988, I decided that "E" for Earth would be a nice way to go on my cachets. The end result was an eight cover set (Q1301 to Q1308) featuring the seven continents plus the oceans of the world. In January of 1991 the "F" stamp was issued, and I decided that "Flowers" would be a vivid topic for my cachet and a colorful tulips and windmill COLLINS came into existence (D1801). And now, for the current rate increase, the "G" stamp has been issued.

The timing of the First Day of Issue in December made this an easy call for me. It was sandwiched between a gigantic Republi tidal wave in the November elections and the up-coming formal transition of Government to the new Republican majorities in January. I decided that the opportunity was at hand to create a "political cover" that would stand as a unique philtelic collectible that would mark at the least a very memorable election in America's political history and at most could wind up as a First Day Cover milepost indicating a permanent shift in our national government. Future elections will help determi the true degree of significance of the '94 elections but whatever that outcome and whatever your own political leaning might be, this "G" cover by COLLINS will definitely be one to own, and I predict an early sell-out.

A common term used to identify the Republicans is GOP for "Grand Old Party". Naturally this fits right in with the "G" theme and these initials are the main title in hand-painted letters on my cachet. They are positioned over the Capitol Building beneath which is the caption "Republicans Control Congress for the First time in Forty Years." The largest portion of the cachet, however, is reserved for the politician who many say was most responsible for the landslide win with his "Contract for America". He, too, fit into the "G" scenario -- Representative Gingrich. In January he was sworn in as Speaker of the House and his hand-painted portrait is a large part of this political cover.

As for the American flag stamps, I opted for a combo cover with both the white first-class stamp and yellow postcard rate stamp being used on their Day of Issue. They have the appropriate Washington, D.C. First Day postmark which is perfect for my political theme. Whether you are a Republican, Democrat or Independent, you will appreciate the appropriate and timely use of the "G" theme for the big election event that dominated the press at the time of this stamp issue. I'm pleased to offer you a First Day Cover that captured the enormity of the moment.

The Republicans gaining control of Congress. Gingrich elected as Speaker. The GOP and Mr. Newt. COLLINS #U2301. $10.75.