Stuart Covers

The Stuart First Day Cover, with its defining logo of the thistle, has been in existence longer than any other First Day Envelope on the market today.

The company was started in 1965, I believe, in the Southampton area, and I have been informed that it is the only envelope produced for every single commemorative stamp issue by Royal Mail since then. Even Royal Mail didn't always produce a cover for each stamp issue until about 1967. Don't quote me on that, though! If anyone knows differently, do please let me know!

I first started as a customer of Stuart back in 1971 whilst living in the Southampton area when I was running the Postmark Club.

Starting off with very few orders - our main business was just in special postmarks! - as time moved on and more stamp issues came out, the numbers grew and it was apparent that this was the First Day Envelope of choice for a very loyal band of collectors - just as the Cotswold is to their devotees.

As with its "sister" cover, the designs were engraved and die-stamped - a process we continue with today. It may be expensive but we receive a great number of favourable comments and besides, I think it is the smartest way of decorating a cover. I like to think we have brought the designs up to the 21st century, with freshness and modernity, but in the old style. Clear images that enhance, not overwhelm, the stamps being issued. That's what we try to do anyway!

Should you wish to receive regular Stuart First Day Covers from us, you will receive in your package:

• the Stuart FDC
• Illustrated Newsletter with information sheet giving plenty of background information
• flyers giving you advance notice of forthcoming issues so you can choose whether to buy or not - no obligation!

Just let us know by completing the Order Form if you wish to purchase/subscribe to any of our services.

Cost: £8.95 each excluding postage and packing (add £2.50 up to and including three items)

Don't forget, you can opt for our First Day Envelope service whereby you will receive the blank envelope on which to place the stamps exactly as you wish. This could not only personalise your collection according to your interest but it could be a way of reducing costs.