1957 National Education Association .03 Cents

This is a First Day of Issue envelope commemorating the 100th anniversary of the National Education Association (NEA), featuring a U.S. postage stamp issued in 1957. The envelope is a collectible item for philatelists, honoring the contributions of American teachers and the NEA's century-long commitment to education.

**Product Description:**

- **Title:** 100th Anniversary National Education Association First Day of Issue Envelope
- **Issue Date:** July 1, 1957
- **Location of Issue:** Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (postmarked with the date and time: 9:00 AM, Jul 1, 1957)
- **Stamp Included:** 
  - A single 3-cent U.S. postage stamp titled "Honoring the Teachers of America, National Education Association 1857-1957."
  - The stamp features an illustration of three figures, likely representing teachers, with one holding an open book. The design is in a reddish-pink color, with the text "U.S. Postage 3¢" printed on it.
- **Cachet (Design on Envelope):**
  - The left side of the envelope features a detailed black-and-white illustration of educational symbols, including a globe, an open book, a lamp of knowledge, and framed pictures on the wall showing a schoolhouse and the years "1857" and "1957," marking the NEA's centennial.
  - The text "100th ANNIVERSARY NATIONAL EDUCATION ASSOCIATION" is prominently displayed at the top, highlighting the occasion.
  - Below the illustration, the phrase "An Educated People Moves Freedom Forward" is printed, reflecting the NEA's mission to advance education and its role in promoting freedom and democracy.
  - The bottom left includes the NEA logo, featuring the years "1857-1957" and the text "Centennial," along with the NEA initials.
  - The text "First Day of Issue" is printed at the bottom, indicating the envelope's collectible status.
  - A small signature or logo, possibly from the cachet designer (reading "ArtCraft"), is visible near the illustration.
- **Postmark:** 
  - A circular postmark reads "Philadelphia, PA, Jul 1, 9:00 AM, 1957," marking the official first day of issue for this stamp.
- **Additional Markings:** 
  - The text "FIRST DAY OF ISSUE" is printed to the right of the stamp, reinforcing the envelope's significance as a philatelic item.
- **Condition:** The envelope appears to be in good condition, typical of a well-preserved collectible from the late 1950s, with some minor signs of aging such as slight discoloration around the edges (based on the image provided).

This First Day of Issue envelope is a piece of postal history that celebrates the 100th anniversary of the National Education Association and the vital role of teachers in American society. It serves as a meaningful addition to any stamp collection or a historical keepsake for those interested in education history or mid-20th-century Americana.