US Stamps
Frank Carlson’s art on covers

U.S. Stamp Notes by John M. Hotchner
Frank Carlson is a name well known to World War II cover collectors. While in the military and writing home, he added intricate designs to his envelopes. Some of his correspondents had the good sense to retain the covers, and one of them is shown here.
Addressed to his wife and sent in October 1945 from Army Post Office 714 in Manila, the Philippines, the envelope illustrates complaints about the method of determining who got to go home first. Points were given for length of service, service abroad, combat service and being a parent.
With 7.6 million servicemen and servicewomen overseas as WWII ended, there were not enough ships and planes to bring them all home at once. And, of course, no system was going to satisfy everyone.
Naturally, those waiting at home were also anxious. This cover looks to be an attempt to explain the situation to Carlson’s wife.
Once home in December 1945, Carlson continued to produce various types of decorated covers. ...
To see the other two Frank Carlson covers discussed in this week’s U.S. Stamp Notes, subscribe to Linn’s Stamp News.
Connect with Linn’s Stamp News:
Sign up for our newsletter
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
MORE RELATED ARTICLES
Headlines
-
Postal Updates
Jun 11, 2025, 5 PMColorado hot springs town celebrates 60th year of festival
-
World Stamps
Jun 11, 2025, 2 PMRoyal Mail celebrates the Royal Observatory Greenwich in June 12 issue
-
World Stamps
Jun 11, 2025, 12 PMMarket volatility affecting catalog values of PRC stamps
-
World Stamps
Jun 10, 2025, 4 PMA masterwork of Chinese shengxiao philately