P3101

NATO

50th Anniversary

Cover Announcement 

North Atlantic Treaty Organization

The gorgeous and philatelically superb First Day postmark on this cover makes it a fantastic piece that should not be missed. It was actually obtained at NATO Headquarters in Belgium on the day of issue by Brussels Collins collector Thierry Delespesse. We all have Thierry to thank for the existence of this great collectible.

The cancel is very large and a nice red shade in color. The short, broad, definitive killer bars give it a very distinctive appearance. On the top is "APO AE 90724" which is the United States Postal Station at NATO. The "Oct. 13, 1999" Day of Issue is in the center. At the bottom is "HQ NATO Brussels" which shows where this Collins First Day Cover was actually canceled on issue date. The red color of the postmark provides a beautiful contrast to the vivid blue stamp. Thanks to collector Delespesse, this superb NATO headquarters cancellation will add to the reputation of the philatelic significance that I have brought to my covers since 1978.

Eleven other countries joined the United States in signing the North Atlantic Treaty on April 4, 1949. I thought that displaying all twelve flags in vivid watercolors would provide a beautiful and fitting tribute to the countries that would eventually shatter, through their common determination, the menace of Soviet Communism.

In the top row from left to right are the flags of Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, the United States and Belgium. The middle row shows France, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Canada. Across the bottom are the flags of Norway, Italy, Denmark, and Iceland. At the lower right, President Harry Truman signs the Treaty for the United States. Behind his shoulder is the NATO symbol.

The cost of this cover is slightly higher than usual due to the extra time it takes to paint the twelve flags. A rapid sell-out is probable, so do not delay in placing your order. This cover has a colorful hand painted cachet with 12 flags flying in the breeze of freedom and the superb NATO Headquarters First Day postmark actually obtained in Brussels, Belgium on the day of issue. A Collins exclusive. I'm pleased to offer the NATO 50th Anniversary 1-DC. Item #P3101 - $14.25.