This official First Day Cover from Russia, issued 1 January 1998, commemorates the third series of definitive postage stamps of the Russian Federation. The cover bears five denominations (1.00, 1.50, 2.00, 3.00, 2.50 RUB), each illustrating emblematic themes of modern Russia, including telecommunications, transport, architecture, and the national coat of arms.
The large central emblem of the Russian double-headed eagle and the bilingual “Premier Jour – Первый день” cancellations from Moscow Postamt No. 3 enhance its postal authenticity. The cover also carries a red Moscow Postamt label and multiple clear strikes dated 01-01-1998 / 16-01-1998, showing postal handling on both sides.
Produced by Goznak and catalogued as КПД № 1246, this FDC is an excellent item for collectors of Russian Federation issues, definitives, postal history, and modern state emblems.