This 1964 American Music 5¢ First Day Cover features a block of four U.S. postage stamps issued October 15, 1964, in New York, NY. The Artmaster cachet commemorates the 50th anniversary of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), with lively illustrations of musicians playing guitar, saxophone, trumpet, violin, and other instruments.
ASCAP was founded in 1914 to protect the performing rights of American songwriters and publishers at a time when the music industry was rapidly expanding through radio, recordings, and live performance. The stamp's design, with its array of instruments and sheet music, celebrates the rich diversity of American musical traditions from classical to jazz and popular song.
A notable detail is the cachet's dramatic triangular motif framing the performers, a signature Artmaster artistic choice that adds visual energy to the cover. The cover is addressed to Murray Ludmer in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, a common practice among mid-century collectors.
In excellent condition with a crisp first-day cancel, this cover makes an attractive addition for collectors of music topicals, ASCAP memorabilia, or Artmaster cachets.
