Well known cachet artist Fred Collins produced a superb hand painted FDC showing a Salvation Army collecting kettle for the USA Caring & Sharing issue of October 7th. 1998, Collins number R2901.
Collins has a unique numbering system for his covers. His first cover the Quilt Making cover was number A101 with a second variety numbered A102. His second issue the Statue of Liberty was numbered B101, B102, and B103. Generally the covers with the 02 03 numbers were made in small qualities and have a higher retail price. The exception to this is when there are several stamps in an issue. For example the Greeting from American series is numbered L3501 – L3550. Also about twice a year he has a subscriber only cover. His first “year” numbering ending with Z101, with the “second” year numbering starting at A201.
Collins Hand Painted FDCs have been produced since 1978 and their reputation for superb quality has continued to grow. Each and every Collins cachet is individually hand painted in beautiful watercolors. Brush stroke after careful brush stroke brings each cover to life, and they truly are miniature works of art. His first cachet was the American Quilt making issue (1748-51) issued in March 1978 and he is still producing First Day Covers.
Fred Collins is a co-founder and charter member of the National Cachetmakers Association, a life member of the American First Day Cover Society, a member of the American Philatelic Society, a member of the National Stamp Dealers Association, an elected member of Earl Planty's First Day Cover Hall of Fame,and an honorary lifetime member of the Molly Pitcher Stamp Club of New Jersey. Fred Collins was awarded the Cachetmaker of the Half-Century (1951-2000) as voted by the membership of the American First Day Cover Society.
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