First day cover Louis XI Charles the Bold 1969 FDC old stamp

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

First Day Cover (FDC) philatelic envelope, illustrated on the front with a colorful historical scene depicting Louis XI and Charles the Bold, created by artist H. Simoni. The print features vibrant shades of purple, green, brown, and blue on a white background. In the upper left, the inscription "PREMIER JOUR D'ÉMISSION – No 697A – HISTORIQUE – F.D.C." is clearly visible in purple. The illustration occupies the left side, while the right side features an old French stamp of 0.80 F, issued in 1969, bearing the effigy of Louis XI and Charles the Bold. Two round purple postmarks "EXPOSITION CHARLES LE TÉMÉRAIRE DIJON 12 NOV. 69" are clearly affixed on the front.

The stamp, from the "République Française" series, displays a portrait in green and brown, accompanied by the legend "Louis XI et Charles le Téméraire." The overall presentation is neat, typical of FDC (First Day Cover) envelopes, with a crisp, blur-free print. The envelope is uncancelled on the back (not visible in the photo), but the front shows a very clean visual condition, with no apparent folds, stains, or tears.

The graphic composition combines a medieval decor with period costumes, highlighting the historical aspect of this philatelic issue. The commemorative postmark, dated November 8/9, 1969, in Dijon, reinforces the testimonial value of this envelope for enthusiasts of historical philately and postal documents related to French history.

In the lower left, the inscription "LOUIS XI ET CHARLES LE TÉMÉRAIRE" appears in capital letters, providing immediate identification of the subject. The pink logo of the FDC publisher is also visible in the lower left corner. The ensemble presents excellent readability of texts and a well-centered illustration, on smooth white paper.

This type of FDC envelope is sought after for the quality of its engraving, the crispness of its cancellations, and the relevance of its thematic illustration. Here, the scene evokes an emblematic episode between two major figures of the late French Middle Ages, carefully reproduced in a graphic style typical of philatelic productions of the 1960s.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible front shows no notable defects; the print and cancellations are clear, with no signs of wear, folds, or apparent discoloration.

Did you know? First Day Covers (FDCs) commemorate the official release of a stamp and are canceled on the same day with a special postmark, often related to an exhibition or historical event. The 1969 issue dedicated to Louis XI and Charles the Bold recalls the rivalry between the King of France and the Duke of Burgundy, which marked European politics at the end of the 15th century.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller specializing in philatelic and historical items.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC, old French stamp, Louis XI, Charles the Bold, 1969, special cancellation, historical philately, commemorative letter, first day of issue, French stamp cover, Dijon philately