# CNC17 FDC - 2008 42c Flags of Nation, AL coin FDC

This Flags of Our Nation Coin Cover features the Alabama stamp from the Flags of Our Nation Series, two uncirculated state quarters, and a cachet, or picture, that reflects the history of the state.

 

Although the Southern state of Alabama was admitted to the Union in 1819, its citizens waited until the Civil War to adopt their first flag, which was commemorated on a 2008 U.S. postage stamp as part of the Flags of Our Nation series. Designed after the Secession Convention, Alabama’s first official flag was known as the “Republic of Alabama” flag. During the 1861-65 war, Alabama recognized the Confederate States of America flag as its own. With the Union restored, Alabama authorized a “crimson cross of St. Andrew on a field of white” as its official flag, effective February 16, 1895.

 

The 2003 Alabama state quarter, the first circulating U.S. coin to feature braille, honors the life and achievements of Helen Keller. Born in 1880 in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Keller lost her sight and hearing to childhood meningitis. With the help of her teacher Anne Sullivan, Keller learned to speak and read and eventually became a teacher. “Spirit of Courage” is a dedication to Keller’s will as an inspiration to generations as well as the strength and perseverance of Alabamians through the years.

 

Pictured on the front of the Alabama Flags of Our Nation Coin First Day Cover is the inauguration of Jefferson Davis as President of the Confederate States of America (C.S.A.). Davis was sworn in on February 18, 1861, at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery. His term lasted until 1865, when the Confederacy rejoined the Union.