H1201

Transportation

Canal Boat 1880s

Collins Cover Announcement 

1880's CANAL BOAT

10-cent Transportation Series

This COLLINS has a strip of three of the new stamp and the strip is tied to the cover with a super "Constitution and Eagle" unofficial First Day cancellation. The cancel shows an eagle with arrows and shield along with a banner proclaiming "We the People". Above, the words "Constitution Bicentennial" act as a heading for this hand cancel. Of course, it is most appropriate to have one of the Transportation stamps done with a Constitution cancel in this year of its Bicentennial.

The hand-painted cachet is done in very bright colors. A boat is being pulled along by mules on the tow path.

Reflections of the canal boat, shore buildings and mules are mirrored on the water's surface. A crew member tends the tiller while passengers lounge on the upper deck (cabin's roof) under a canopy. An old traditional inn is coming up and looks inviting -- perhaps the day's destination?

This cover has a fine and colorful cachet and an excellent Constitutional First Day cancel -- proof that again this COLLINS was actually done on the Day of Issue. Item #H1201