1994 Red-breasted Duck Presentation Cover

This 1994 Duck Stamp First Day Cover brings together a thoughtfully selected group of U.S. stamps celebrating waterfowl conservation, wildlife art, and American folk traditions. Postmarked June 30, 1994, at the U.S. Duck Stamp Station in Washington, D.C., the cover marks the first day of issue for the 1994 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp.

The centerpiece is the 1994 Federal Duck Stamp (RW61), featuring Red-Breasted Mergansers, illustrated by artist Buddy Byerly. Proceeds from Duck Stamp sales support the preservation of wetlands and critical wildlife habitats across the United States. The cover also includes the 1984 Preserving Wetlands commemorative (Scott #2092), reinforcing the conservation theme and highlighting the federal government’s long-standing role in habitat protection.

Completing the design are stamps from the Folk Art USA series (Scott #2138–2141), which depict traditional hand-carved duck decoys, an art form closely associated with waterfowl hunting and conservation history. The inclusion of Scott #1362, featuring a flying duck design, further unifies the cover around the shared theme of North American waterfowl. Together, these stamps create a cohesive and visually engaging tribute to Duck Stamp history, conservation efforts, and American wildlife art.