This 1971 11¢ United States Air Mail coil stamp First Day Cover features a clean Artmaster cachet and the official Spokane, Washington postmark dated May 7, 1971. The stamp depicts a modern jet airliner and was issued to meet the new domestic airmail rate that took effect that year.
The early 1970s marked a period of transition for U.S. airmail service as rates adjusted and the Postal Service increasingly relied on high-speed jet aircraft. Coil stamps like this one were produced specifically for vending machines and automated post offices, making them an essential part of everyday postal operations.
A notable detail is the Artmaster cachet’s stylized winged figure above a rounded tablet that explicitly labels the issue as the “ELEVEN CENT United States AIR MAIL Rate—1971 COIL,” a design choice that directly references the rate change and format. The cover also carries the printed “FIRST DAY OF ISSUE” inscription beside the stamp.
Collector appeal is enhanced by the combination of a transportation-themed jet stamp, a clearly legible first-day cancel from the official city, and the attractive Artmaster cachet. The cover remains in fresh condition, making it a strong addition to any U.S. airmail, coil, or 1970s topical collection.
