U.S. 1981 Everett Dirksen 15¢ First Day Cover – Pekin, IL (January 4, 1981) Colorano Silk Cachet

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This is an Official First Day Cover (FDC) from the United States, issued on January 4, 1981, honoring U.S. Senator Everett McKinley Dirksen (1896–1969) with a 15¢ commemorative stamp (Scott #1874).

The stamp features a detailed black-and-white portrait of Dirksen wearing his signature black-rimmed glasses, with the inscriptions "USA 15¢" and "Everett Dirksen."

The cover uses a Colorano "Silk" cachet (known for its textured fabric-like appearance):

A large colorful portrait of Dirksen (by artist T.M. Duns) in a green suit and blue tie, set against a background of the waving Illinois state flag (with the bald eagle, rock, and "ILLINOIS" banner).
Gold metallic border framing the cachet.
Text: "EVERETT DIRKSEN" at the top.

Postmarked with a circular cancel from Pekin, Illinois (Dirksen's birthplace and longtime home), dated JAN 4 1981, including "FIRST DAY OF ISSUE" in the killer bars and ZIP 61555A.

Dirksen, a Republican Senator from Illinois (1951–1969), was famous for his oratory, support of civil rights legislation (key role in passing the 1964 Civil Rights Act), and distinctive voice (nicknamed the "Wizard of Ooze"). The stamp and Pekin cancellation pay tribute to his legacy in his hometown.

Popular among collectors for the high-quality Colorano silk cachet, biographical theme, and birthplace FDC appeal.