First Day Cover Arphila 75 Paris 2.00 F Philippe de Champaigne stamp

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This French philatelic First Day Cover features a stamp issued for the Arphila 75 exhibition in Paris. On the visible side, the stamp with a face value of 2.00 francs is clearly distinguishable, illustrating a work by Philippe de Champaigne, a famous 17th-century painter. The envelope bears the mention "Premier jour d'émission" (First Day of Issue) in red in a box, typical of official commemorative editions.

The stamp, predominantly in shades of brown, beige, blue, and red, shows a female figure draped in a flowing gown, based on a painting by Champaigne. The stamp's printing is clear, with the legend "REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE" at the top and "PHILIPPE DE CHAMPAIGNE" at the bottom, as well as the mention "2,00 POSTES" on the left.

A round postmark is applied over the stamp and the upper right part of the envelope, indicating an obliteration "ARPHILA 75 PARIS" as well as a location "RICHELIEU INDRE-ET-LOIRE". There is also a printed decoration on the right, partially visible, illustrating architectural elements and the mention "Richelieu".

The address printed in purple at the bottom of the envelope indicates "SCOTEM, 11 Rue Neuve Popincourt, 75011 PARIS". A handwritten box seems to indicate a price or reference "20F". The envelope is kept in a transparent plastic sleeve for protection, which ensures the item's good condition.

The visible side shows no major defects, scratches, or significant stains. The stamp's colors remain well-contrasted, and the whole presents a clean and neat appearance. This First Day Cover, also known as FDC, illustrates a significant episode in French philately centered around the Arphila 75 exhibition.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible envelope and stamp are in good overall condition with fresh colors and plastic protection.

Did you know? The Arphila 75 exhibition was held in Paris in 1975 to celebrate the centenary of the Universal Postal Union. First Day Covers issued on this occasion are sought after for their historical value and print quality, often associated with major artists like Philippe de Champaigne.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping ensured by an experienced professional seller.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC France, Arphila 75 stamp, stamp Paris, Premier Jour d’émission, Philippe de Champaigne stamp, philatelic envelope, Arphila exhibition, Richelieu Indre-et-Loire, French stamp cover, Arphila 1975, commemorative envelope