R1601

Eagle and Shield

Collins Cover Announcement 

EAGLE AND SHIELD

Twenty-five Cent Self-adhesive Extraordinary

This hand-painted COLLINS cover is a perfect example of what I try to achieve with each and every new issue. I am most happy with the final outcome and recommend up front that you not miss adding it to your collection.

My first step was deciding on the cachet design. I knew that I wanted to use our national symbol -- the bald eagle. Almost immediately I decided to put this majestic bird in a natural habitat. I considered several flying and stationary designs. My final selection was to have the eagle perched on a jutting pine tree branch, high above a valley floor. In the distance, a mountain range blends with a cloud-filled sky. A very nice design.

I next decided on my first day itinerary. My early morning flight would take me into Norfolk, Virginia and then a cab would be used to get to the Virginia Beach (First Day site) Post Office and back to the airport. The next step was a flight to Roanoke in Western Virginia with a stop in Charlotte, North Carolina. During the flight, I put the stamps on the covers, and what a pleasure it was to do the "sticking" without the "licking" -- thanks to the selfadhesive format. I was pleasantly surprised at the ease in handling this peel and paste type stamp. Very convenient.

Upon arriving in Roanoke, I picked up my rental car and headed northwest through the scenic foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, past the Appalachian Trail and on to the mountain hamlet of Eagle Rock. This would be my related, unofficial (real) First Day cancel, and what a beauty it is. A nice black bullseye with killer bars. Nestled snugly into the space left for it. The name Eagle Rock being perfect for this issue and this cachet. Another cancel on another COLLINS FDC that adds true philatelic significance.

Once I arrived home, the final step began as I decided on just the right color combinations to complement the stamp. Dark green clumps of needles protrude from the pine limb adding depth perception to the ravine and valley far below. The slate and violet mountains in the background are highlighted by the warm glow of the setting sun. The departing red sun also reflects off the horizon clouds creating a beautiful Allegheny sunset. And, finally, the regal presence of the bald eagle is perhaps one of the finest eagle cachets ever produced. Overlooking his domain high above the wild countryside. Profiled against the evening sky with distinctive beak and steady eye. Proud posture projecting his dominance. On the feathers of his familiar white head, the evening colors of sky, earth, and sun gently reflect. A fine FDC. Item #R1601 - $8.00.