1986 Arkansas Statehood .22c
**Product Description: Arkansas 150th Anniversary First Day Cover (FDC) - January 3, 1986**
Celebrate a milestone in American history with this beautifully designed First Day Cover (FDC) honoring the 150th anniversary of Arkansas statehood. Issued on January 3, 1986, in Little Rock, Arkansas, this FDC marks the sesquicentennial of Arkansas’ admission to the Union in 1836, showcasing the state’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
**Key Features:**
- **Official U.S. Postage Stamp:** The cover features a 22-cent stamp from the Statehood series, depicting Arkansas’ Old State House in Little Rock, a historic landmark that served as the state capitol from 1836 to 1911. The stamp, with its crisp blue and green tones, captures the architectural elegance of this iconic building, framed by trees and set against a clear sky.
- **First Day of Issue Postmark:** This FDC bears an official First Day of Issue postmark from Little Rock, dated January 3, 1986. The cancellation includes the text "150th Anniversary of Arkansas Statehood," making this a true collector’s piece.
- **Vibrant Cachet Design:** The envelope’s cachet, created by Artmaster, is a stunning tribute to Arkansas’ heritage. It features:
- A detailed illustration of the Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock, symbolizing the state’s governance and history.
- A map of Arkansas highlighting the capital, Little Rock, with the state’s outline in bold red.
- The Arkansas state flag, prominently displayed with its diamond motif and blue stars, representing the state’s status as the 25th state.
- Symbols of Arkansas’ natural treasures: the state flower (apple blossom) and the state bird (mockingbird), rendered in delicate detail with soft colors.
- The years "1836-1986," commemorating 150 years of statehood.
- **Historical Significance:** This FDC captures Arkansas’ journey from its admission to the Union in 1836 to its vibrant present in 1986. The imagery reflects the state’s pride in its natural beauty, history, and cultural landmarks, making it a meaningful keepsake for philatelists and history enthusiasts alike.
- **Condition:** This FDC is in pristine condition, unaddressed, with a clean postmark and vibrant colors, ensuring its value as a collectible item. The envelope measures approximately 6.5 x 3.5 inches, a standard size for FDCs, perfect for display or storage in a collector’s album.
**Perfect For:**
- Stamp collectors seeking to expand their U.S. statehood collection.
- History buffs interested in Arkansas’ legacy and its contributions to the United States.
- Gift-givers looking for a unique and educational present for philatelists or those with ties to Arkansas.
**Why Collect This FDC?**
This First Day Cover is more than a piece of postal history—it’s a snapshot of Arkansas’ pride and identity, captured through art, symbolism, and official U.S. postage. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to philately, this FDC offers a tangible connection to the Natural State’s 150-year legacy.
Add this Arkansas 150th Anniversary First Day Cover to your collection today and own a piece of American history!