F1401s

Ratification of the Constitution

Virginia

Fred Collins Signature

Spring 2024 Mail Sale Commentary 

Lot 8 F1401 — Bicentennial of Virginia Statehood— 6-25-88

The hand painted cachet features many of the things associated with the state of Virginia. Statesman and founding father, Thomas Jefferson, is one of Virginia's most famous and distinguished citizens, and his portrait is prominent in the cachet. Behind him is his beloved Monticello. With a flourish of earth colors, the "natural bridge" is rendered in natural and beautiful tones. Continuing with the natural theme are the red fox and cardinal which represent the state's wildlife and the delicate dogwood blossom which is the state flower. An early sailing ship represents the first settlers from England as they founded Jamestown. A furthering of the maritime theme shows the Civil War encounter between the Monitor and the Merrimac as they met in battle at Hampton Roads. The "Bicentennial of Statehood" lettering and the border which frames the cachet are hand painted in a rich forest green.

The cover has two of the Virginia Statehood stamps. One is canceled at Williamsburg, Virginia. The other is canceled at Philadelphia with the wonderful "B. Free Franklin" Colonial postmark. I believe this is the first time the Bicentennial of Virginia Statehood cover has been offered in one of my mail sales.