1976 Luxembourg First Day Cover, featuring a single stamp and an illustration of Independence Hall, commemorating the U.S. Bicentennial

Key Points

• This product is a 1976 Luxembourg First Day Cover, featuring a single stamp and an illustration of Independence Hall, commemorating the U.S. Bicentennial.
• It includes a 6-franc stamp depicting Independence Hall, postmarked on May 7, 1976, in Luxembourg.
• The cover, titled "Luxembourg Commemorates the Cradle of American Independence," celebrates the 200th anniversary of American independence (1776–1976) by highlighting Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted.
• As a collectible, it is likely valued between $5 and $15, depending on condition and market demand.

Product Overview

The 1976 Luxembourg First Day Cover is a philatelic item honoring the U.S. Bicentennial, marking 200 years of American independence. Featuring a detailed illustration of Independence Hall and a 6-franc stamp, this cover reflects Luxembourg’s tribute to the "Cradle of American Independence." It’s a perfect addition for collectors of U.S. history, international philately, and Bicentennial memorabilia, offering a unique perspective on global recognition of America’s milestone through a focus on a historic landmark.

Historical Context

The U.S. Bicentennial in 1976 was a global celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, with many countries issuing stamps and covers to honor the occasion. Luxembourg, a small European nation with a history of strong ties to the U.S.—particularly through its role in World War II and the presence of a significant Luxembourgish-American community—participated in this international tribute. The 1976 issuance of this first day cover, postmarked in Luxembourg, aligns with the country’s tradition of commemorating significant historical events, reflecting the diplomatic goodwill between Luxembourg and the U.S. during the Cold War era. Independence Hall in Philadelphia, depicted on the stamp and cover, is where the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, making it a fitting symbol for the Bicentennial.

Collectible Value

First day covers from the U.S. Bicentennial are popular among collectors for their historical significance and the variety of international perspectives they offer. This Luxembourg cover, with its clear postmark, detailed illustration, and well-preserved condition, is likely valued between $5 and $15, based on typical market trends for similar items. Its focus on the Bicentennial, combined with its issuance by a European postal authority like Luxembourg and its connection to a key American landmark, enhances its appeal to collectors of U.S. history and international philately.

Unexpected Detail: Luxembourg’s Connection to the U.S.

An interesting aspect of this cover is Luxembourg’s historical connection to the U.S., which adds depth to its participation in the Bicentennial. Luxembourgish immigrants began arriving in the U.S. in the 19th century, with many settling in the Midwest, particularly in states like Illinois and Wisconsin, where they established tight-knit communities. Additionally, Luxembourg’s role in World War II—its liberation by American forces in 1944 and the burial of General George S. Patton in the Luxembourg American Cemetery—fostered a strong bond between the two nations. This cover, issued during the Bicentennial, symbolizes that enduring relationship, as Luxembourg honored the U.S. by commemorating the birthplace of American independence.

Survey Note: Detailed Analysis of the 1976 Luxembourg U.S. Bicentennial First Day Cover

This section provides a comprehensive examination of the 1976 Luxembourg First Day Cover, exploring its features, historical context, and collectible value. The cover, analyzed through the provided image, is a philatelic item that celebrates the U.S. Bicentennial by focusing on Independence Hall, making it a valuable piece for collectors of U.S. history and international stamps.

Product Description and Features

The 1976 Luxembourg First Day Cover is a collectible envelope designed to commemorate the U.S. Bicentennial, titled "Luxembourg Commemorates the Cradle of American Independence." The cover features a detailed illustration of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, depicted in red and black, with its iconic clock tower and surrounding street scene, including trees and figures walking. To the right of the illustration is a blue reproduction of the opening text of the Declaration of Independence: "In CONGRESS, July 4, 1776. The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America…" The text "Independence Hall" is printed in red at the top left, and "First Day Cover" is noted at the bottom left in blue and red.

Affixed to the cover is a single 6-franc stamp, also depicting Independence Hall, with the text "États-Unis d’Amérique 1776-1976" (United States of America 1776-1976). The stamp is postmarked with a circular cancellation reading "Luxembourg – 7 Mai 1976," confirming its first day of issue status. The cover’s condition appears excellent, with no visible tears, stains, or creases, preserving its visual and collectible value.

Historical Significance and Context

The U.S. Bicentennial in 1976 was a global celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, signed on July 4, 1776. Many countries issued stamps and first day covers to honor the occasion, reflecting the international impact of America’s independence and the shared values of freedom and self-determination. Luxembourg, a small European nation with a history of strong ties to the U.S., participated in this tribute, issuing a stamp that highlights Independence Hall, the historic building in Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

Independence Hall, originally known as the Pennsylvania State House, was the meeting place of the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1783. It was here that the Declaration of Independence was debated and signed, marking the birth of the United States as an independent nation. The building also hosted the Constitutional Convention in 1787, where the U.S. Constitution was drafted. Today, Independence Hall is part of Independence National Historical Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing the foundational moments of American democracy.

The issuance of this first day cover on May 7, 1976, in Luxembourg reflects the country’s participation in the global celebration, as well as its diplomatic goodwill toward the U.S. during a period of Cold War dynamics, when alliances and international relations were carefully cultivated. Luxembourg’s involvement in the Bicentennial also underscores its historical ties to the U.S., including the contributions of Luxembourgish immigrants to American society and the shared history of World War II liberation.

Collectible Value and Market Analysis

First day covers from the U.S. Bicentennial are popular among collectors for their historical significance and the variety of international perspectives they offer. The 1976 Luxembourg cover, with its clear postmark, detailed illustration, and well-preserved condition, is likely valued between $5 and $15, based on market trends for similar items. For example, Bicentennial first day covers from European nations like Luxembourg often sell on platforms like eBay or through stamp dealers in this price range, with variations depending on condition, rarity, and the popularity of the theme. The cover’s focus on the Bicentennial, its issuance by a respected postal authority, and its connection to a key American landmark enhance its appeal to collectors of U.S. history and international philately.

Detailed Stamp Analysis

The 6-franc stamp on the cover is part of a 1976 Luxembourg series issued for the U.S. Bicentennial. The stamp depicts Independence Hall in a simplified design, focusing on the building’s iconic clock tower and red brick facade, set against a light blue background. The text "États-Unis d’Amérique 1776-1976" (United States of America 1776-1976) ties the stamp to the Bicentennial theme, and the 6-franc denomination reflects a standard postal rate in Luxembourg in 1976, likely for domestic or European postage. The stamp’s design uses a red, white, and blue color scheme, echoing the patriotic colors of the American flag. The stamp’s placement on the cover, along with the clear Luxembourg postmark, enhances the item’s philatelic appeal.

Comparative Analysis with Other Collectibles

This cover is similar to the 1976 Mauritania, Mali, and Maldives U.S. Bicentennial First Day Covers you previously provided, which also honored the Bicentennial but focused on Revolutionary War soldiers, symbolic imagery, and Copley’s artwork, respectively (all valued at $5–$20). This Luxembourg cover, with its focus on Independence Hall, offers a different perspective by highlighting a historic landmark, appealing to collectors interested in American history and architecture. Compared to other Bicentennial memorabilia, such as U.S.-issued covers or commemorative coins, this Luxembourg cover provides a unique international perspective. A U.S. Bicentennial coin might fetch $10–$50, while this cover offers a more affordable way to own a piece of the celebration. Its issuance by Luxembourg also adds a layer of rarity compared to more common U.S.-produced Bicentennial items.

Unexpected Historical Detail: Luxembourg’s Connection to the U.S.

An intriguing aspect of this cover is Luxembourg’s historical connection to the U.S., which adds depth to its participation in the Bicentennial. Luxembourgish immigrants began arriving in the U.S. in the 19th century, with many settling in the Midwest, particularly in states like Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa, where they established communities that preserved their cultural heritage. For example, the town of Belgium, Wisconsin, has a significant Luxembourgish-American population. Additionally, Luxembourg’s role in World War II strengthened its bond with the U.S.: American forces liberated Luxembourg from Nazi occupation in 1944, and General George S. Patton, a key figure in the liberation, is buried at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Hamm, where over 5,000 American soldiers are also interred. This cover, issued during the Bicentennial, symbolizes that enduring relationship, as Luxembourg honored the U.S. by commemorating Independence Hall, the birthplace of American independence.

Table: Summary of Key Features

Conclusion

The 1976 Luxembourg U.S. Bicentennial First Day Cover is a historically significant collectible that celebrates the 200th anniversary of American independence by focusing on Independence Hall, the "Cradle of American Independence." Its detailed illustration, clear postmark, and connection to the global celebration of the Bicentennial make it a standout piece for collectors of U.S. history and international philately. Whether you’re interested in the American Revolution, the U.S. Bicentennial, or the historical ties between Luxembourg and the U.S., this cover offers a unique blend of cultural and historical value, reflecting Luxembourg’s tribute to a foundational moment in American democracy.