This 1965 Salvation Army First Day Cover features the 5¢ U.S. commemorative stamp marking the organization's centennial (1865–1965), postmarked in New York, NY on July 2, 1965—the official first day of issue. The Art Craft cachet displays a striking reproduction of the Salvation Army centennial medal alongside a portrait of founder General William Booth.
Founded in London by William Booth in 1865, the Salvation Army grew into a global movement combining evangelical Christianity with extensive social services, including shelters, food programs, and disaster relief. By its centennial year the organization was active in dozens of countries, and the U.S. stamp honored its century of service to those in need.
A notable detail is the cachet's faithful rendering of the official centennial medal, which depicts a Salvation Army officer and a woman in traditional bonnet—symbolizing both military-style evangelism and humanitarian outreach. The cover also includes a small inset portrait of Booth reading the Bible.
Addressed to a collector in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, the cover carries the personal notation typical of mid-century FDCs.
A clean, well-centered example ideal for collectors of religious, service-organization, or Art Craft cachet topical collections.
