First Day Cover 1992 Olympic Games curling Albertville vintage philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated envelope is a first day issue dedicated to the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville (Savoie), highlighting the sport of curling. On the visible side, a large, colorful illustration occupies the left part, depicting a curling scene with three players in action on the ice, in a graphic style typical of the early 1990s. The dominant colors are blue, purple, beige, and brown, with a black frame and the title "LE CURLING" at the top of the illustration.

The right side of the envelope features a red stamp "Albertville 1992" (face value 2.50 + 0.20 F) accompanied by two round black postmarks bearing the inscription "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION" (First Day of Issue) and the date "20 AVRIL 1991" (April 20, 1991), as well as the curling logo and the location "PRAZ-SUR-ARLY" (partially visible), confirming the authenticity of the philatelic issue for this major sporting event. The bilingual mention "FIRST DAY COVER" in pink and the printed numbering at the bottom right: "N° 0540" are also noticeable.

The printed texts on the visible side include: "JEUX D’HIVER 1992 ALBERTVILLE (SAVOIE)" at the bottom of the illustration, as well as the artist's signature, difficult to decipher precisely. The graphic and typographical elements are characteristic of official commemorative envelopes issued for major international competitions.

The entire piece is distinguished by its classic rectangular format, straight corners, and meticulous presentation. The white surface highlights the colorful motifs and postmarks, while the printing quality and sharpness of details correspond to the standards of French Olympic philately from the turn of the 1990s.

This type of first day cover (FDC) is valued for its documentary significance, combining sports illustration, a commemorative stamp, and a specific postmark for the issue date. The mention "Winter Olympic Games" and the curling graphics make it an iconic item for enthusiasts of sports thematic philately and Olympic history.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side shows good overall freshness, with no apparent folds or tears. The printing and postmarks are clear and legible. Numbering present. Condition consistent with careful preservation.

Did you know? Curling officially made its return as a demonstration sport at the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, before being reintegrated into the Olympic program in 1998 in Nagano. First day covers associated with these editions bear witness to the evolving history of Olympic disciplines.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller. The item will be protected with attention to ensure safe delivery.

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