Youth Cover and Essay Contest

"Every Cover Has A Story," the American First Day Cover Society contest which invites young people to write short essays about their favorite philatelic covers, is back according to the Society's website.

The contest is open to youths in five age groups, through age 18. Entries must arrive by July 18.

Those entering choose the cover – first day cover, event cover, or any other piece of mail – and write a story about it. The story and cover are both mounted on a single 8-1/2"x11" sheet of paper. Each contestant may enter only once a year, but membership in the AFDCS, by the entrant or a relative, is not required. Entrants do not have to produce the FDC or cachet themselves.

Four winners will be chosen within each of the age groups – Grand Award, First Place, Second Place and Third Place. The winning exhibit pages will be displayed at Americover 2012, which is being held August 10-12 in Irvine, Calif. Every participant will receive a certificate.

Shown above, an example of a previous year's entry.

For more information, click here.