First Day Covers

At Nottingham Stamp Centre Ltd, we offer an extensive range of (mainly) British first day covers. Our collection includes a variety of covers showcasing significant postal releases and events. Ideal for collectors seeking to expand their collections or as unique gifts, our covers offer both historical value and visual appeal.

What is a first day cover?

A first day cover (FDC) is a collectible envelope that features a postage stamp that is postmarked on the first day the stamp was officially issued. The envelope often bears a special design or cachet related to the theme of the stamp and the postmark typically includes the date and location of the stamp's issuance. First day covers are popular among philatelists because they capture a specific moment in postal history and often highlight significant events, anniversaries or cultural themes. Collectors value them for their uniqueness and their connection to the introduction of new stamps.

Our Range

Modern First Day Covers (Post-1987)

We stock most first day covers issued by Royal Mail since 1987. These covers generally feature a variety of specially created handstamps. Each cover is unaddressed, except for a small removable sticker, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.

Addressed First Day Covers (1953-2017)

For a more budget-friendly option, we offer addressed first day covers from 1953 to 2017. These covers can also be a cost-effective way to obtain fine used versions of stamps that might otherwise be hard(er) to find.

We also carry first day covers from outside these date ranges, although our stock for these is more limited. If you're looking for covers from other periods, please inquire with us for availability.

How do I place an order?

As we transition from a primarily physical shop to establishing an online presence, we are working on making our stock available for direct online purchase where feasible. For now, you can purchase items by contacting us directly. You can call us, send an email or visit us at one of the events listed in our 'Event Calendar'. If you plan to visit us in person, we recommend reaching out ahead of time so we can ensure the items you want are available when you arrive. Thank you for your patience during this migration period.