Royal mail first day cover album
A fascinating topic!
A Royal Mail First Day Cover (FDC) album is a special album designed to store and display First Day Covers, which are envelopes or cards that have been postmarked on the first day of issue of a new stamp or stamp series. Here's what you need to know:
What is a First Day Cover?
A First Day Cover is an envelope or card that has been postmarked on the first day of issue of a new stamp or stamp series. The postmark is usually applied at a specific post office or location, and it serves as a proof of authenticity and a collectible item.
What is a Royal Mail First Day Cover album?
A Royal Mail First Day Cover album is a specially designed album that is used to store and display First Day Covers. The album is typically made of high-quality paper or cardboard and has pages that are designed to hold the FDCs in place. The album may also include additional features such as:
- Pages with adhesive strips to hold the FDCs in place
- Protective sleeves to prevent damage to the FDCs
- Space for notes or comments about the FDCs
- Photographs or illustrations of the stamps or stamp subjects
Types of Royal Mail First Day Cover albums
Royal Mail offers a range of FDC albums, including:
- Standard albums: These are basic albums that hold a set number of FDCs, usually 12-24.
- Deluxe albums: These are higher-quality albums that may include additional features such as glossy pages, slipcases, or special inserts.
- Specialty albums: These are albums that focus on specific themes, such as a particular country, topic, or series of stamps.
How to use a Royal Mail First Day Cover album
To use a Royal Mail FDC album, simply follow these steps:
- Obtain the FDCs you want to store and display. You can purchase them from Royal Mail or other stamp dealers.
- Open the album and remove the pages.
- Place the FDCs on the pages, making sure they are aligned properly and not overlapping.
- Close the album and store it in a safe place.
Tips for collecting Royal Mail First Day Covers
- Start a new album for each new series or topic to keep your collection organized.
- Consider purchasing FDCs that are signed by the designer, artist, or other notable figures.
- Keep your FDCs in a cool, dry place to prevent damage or deterioration.
- Consider displaying your FDCs in a glass-fronted cabinet or on a wall to showcase your collection.
Overall, a Royal Mail First Day Cover album is a great way to store and display your FDCs, and it can be a fun and rewarding hobby for stamp collectors of all levels.