I3301

Chinese New Year

Year of the Snake

Collins Cover Announcement 

Year of the Snake

This is the ninth stamp to be issued in the Oriental Lunisolar Calendar Series. The previous eight were for the rooster, dog, boar, rat, ox, tiger, hare, and dragon. My hand painted cachet for this year's stamp features the intricately marked Burmese python. This spectacular snake can be found in Southeast Asia including southern China as well as in India. It is large and heavy bodied with lengths of over 20 feet not uncommon. The watercolored rendition on this First Day Cover IS one that you'll really enjoy adding to your collection. As a contrast to the python, I've added China's national flower, and the lovely color ofthis peony coordinates nicely with the stamp.

In the past, this yearly issue has proved very popular, so now is the time to secure it for your collection. I'm pleased to offer the 2001 New Year FDC — The Year of the Snake. Item #I3301 $12.25