FDC Market Value
Analysis of 113,296 eBay listings for First Day Covers (FDCs).
What you'll usually pay
💡 Used ones cost about 50% more here.
👉 In short easy summary
The best value is found in Architecture and Aviation topics, which show price drops of 57% and 46% respectively. Conversely, First Day of Issue cancellation types are the only segment showing growth, with a 6% increase.
💚 Best value for your money
Price by topic
Why? Prices vary by subject matter, with Royalty at 17.12 and Architecture at 8.99.
Price by grade
Why? Condition impacts value, ranging from Superb at 16.74 to Gem at 9.31.
Price by year of issue
Why? Issuance era affects pricing, with Unknown years at 19.77 and 1971-1980 at 13.13.
Price by cancellation type
Why? The method of cancellation drives cost, from First Day of Issue at 22.43 to Machine Cancel at 13.19.
🛒 Some on sale right now
Common questions
What is the median price for a new FDC?
The median price for new FDCs is 13.2.
Which FDC topic is currently the most affordable?
Architecture is the most affordable topic with a median price of 8.99.
How does the price of 'Superb' grade FDCs compare to 'Gem' grade?
Superb grade FDCs have a median price of 16.74, while Gem grade FDCs have a median price of 9.31.
How we got these numbers
Worked out from 200 live eBay listings (price range $8–$46, odd outliers ignored). These are asking prices, so use them as a guide. Last checked June 29, 2026.