Front:
Official Mail USA
WASHING
FEH
Fostal Card Rate D
Penaltye private use $300
1985
20066
DC
Back:
BALD EAGLE
First Day of Issue: February 4, 1985
First Issue Location: Washington, D.C.
To men of every age, the eagle has been the embodiment
of freedom and power. Indeed, from Native American
Indians to the most noble rulers of Europe, this magnifi-
cent bird has always symbolized greatness. The eagle
has been borne on the standards of many of the strongest
armies in the world ... each soldier striving to be bold
and courageous like the mighty eagle. For, when it
comes to strength and power, few birds of prey can
compete with the eagle. Despite its large size, the eagle's
flight is one of the most graceful of all birds. The United
States chose the proud Bald Eagle as its symbol because
it vividly represents the freedom and character of the
nation. With its prominent white head and tail feathers,
the Bald Eagle presents a most striking and noble appear-
ance. The new non-denominated Penalty Mail stamps,
one of which is featured on this Card, also bear the lofty
symbol of the eagle. Previously called “Official Mail”
stamps, the Penalty Mail stamps have been issued to
implement the 1985 postal rate change.
No. 85-5
©1985 The Maximum Card Collection
A Division of Unicover Corporation . Cheyenne, WY 82008-0007
Original painting by John Swatsley.
