First Day Cover 1972 cardiology CEF World Health Month philately FDC

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This First Day Cover, visible in the photo, is dedicated to cardiology for World Health Month in 1972. The envelope, inserted in a protective plastic sleeve, features a colorful artistic illustration with stylized heart, snake, and branch motifs, evoking the medical symbol of the caduceus. The inscription "LA CARDIOLOGIE" (CARDIOLOGY) appears at the bottom left of the stamp, with "Année Mondiale de la Santé" (World Health Year) at the top. The mention "CEF" (Courrier d’Entreprise à Faciale - Business Mail with Face) is legible at the bottom right of the illustration.

The stamp is canceled with a clear round postmark bearing the inscription "MOIS MONDIAL DU CŒUR – PREMIER JOUR" (WORLD HEART MONTH – FIRST DAY) dated April 8, 1972, in Paris. A second identical postmark is also visible on the right side of the envelope. The stamp, in a vertical rectangular format, displays dominant brown, orange, green, blue, and white tones, with a graphic composition typical of the early 1970s.

The envelope also bears a handwritten "10F" label affixed to the plastic sleeve, likely indicating an old price. No handwritten text or address is visible on the presented side. The item is well preserved, with no apparent tears or major folds on the visible area, but the sleeve shows some reflections and superficial creasing.

This is a "FDC" (First Day Cover), a term used in philately to designate an envelope franked and canceled on the day of the stamp's first official issue. This type of document is sought after for its commemorative postmark and original illustration.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Protective sleeve slightly creased on the visible side, envelope in good apparent condition, with no major defects observed on the front.

Did you know? The practice of "First Day of Issue" (FDC) dates back to the early 20th century. In France, illustrated CEF envelopes became popular from the 1950s onwards, combining a stamp, a thematic illustration, and a commemorative postmark for each major postal issue.

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