A new book from the American First Day Cover Society shares a collector’s love for the 1945 U.S. stamp that heralded the formation of the United Nations. The Al Raddi Collection of Scott 928 Toward United Nations Conference FDCs shows more than 170 different first day covers and related items for the issue commemorating the meeting of delegates from 50 countries toward the end of World War II.

Each of the cachets is shown in color. The listings are divided into material that was intended to travel through the mail system, and those that were not. They are then further divided into those with contemporary cachets — applied no later than one year after the April 25, 1945, first-day — and add-ons. Raddi, from Michigan, invites readers to send information about other cachets that exist for this issue.

The book starts with a brief history of the conference, and then information about the stamp.

The Al Raddi Collection is available as a .pdf download from the AFDCS for $8 ($6 for members) or a printout may be purchased for $15 ($13) postpaid. Either version may be ordered from the AFDCS website at www.afdcs.org/fdccatalogs.html. The printed version may also be ordered by mail from AFDCS Sales, PO Box 44, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701-0044.

The American First Day Cover Society is a not-for-profit educational organization, with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status granted by the IRS. Established in 1955, the AFDCS also publishes handbooks, catalogues and its award-winning bimonthly journal, First Days. It also promotes first day cover exhibiting, both at its own Americover show and at other stamp shows.

For more information about the AFDCS, visit www.afdcs.org, e-mail afdcs@afdcs.org or write the AFDCS at PO Box 44, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701-0044.