1989 Christmas Stamps Combo Cover

U.S. #2427-28
1989 25¢ Christmas FDC

Issue Date: October 19, 1989
Printed By: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Printing Method: Lithographed and engraved
Perforations: 11 ½
Color: Multicolored

This Classic First Day Cover features the Traditional and Contempo...  more

U.S. #2427-28
1989 25¢ Christmas FDC

Issue Date: October 19, 1989
Printed By: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Printing Method: Lithographed and engraved
Perforations: 11 ½
Color: Multicolored

This Classic First Day Cover features the Traditional and Contemporary Christmas stamps issued in 1989.

The Traditional Christmas stamp pictures the Madonna and Child detail of the Ludovico Caraccis painting, "The Dream of St. Catherine of Alexandria."  A new feature for 1989 was a booklet of 20 Christmas traditional stamps, in addition to the sheet stamps, which could be conveniently dispensed in vending machines.

The Contemporary Christmas stamp features an antique toy sleigh, brimming with brightly wrapped presents. Also issued in both booklet and sheet form, this is the first time a U.S. stamp has been printed by two different institutions. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing produced the booklet (#2429). The sheet stamps pictured here were produced by the American Bank Note Company. The dedication ceremony took place in the designer’s hometown of Westport, Connecticut. This was the first time the place of issue honored the stamp’s designer.