First Day Cover Bathyscaphe Archimedes FDC stamp Paris philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Illustrated "first day of issue" envelope (FDC, First Day Cover) dedicated to the "Archimède" bathyscaphe. The visible side features a colorful illustration depicting the submarine diving, surrounded by stylized marine elements. The print is crisp, with dominant blue-green, red, and black tones, giving it a graphic look typical of the 1960s.

In the upper right, the words "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION" (FIRST DAY OF ISSUE) are clearly visible, accompanied by the issue date "3 NOVEMBRE 1962" (NOVEMBER 3, 1962) and the number "N° 418". Two black round "PREMIER JOUR" (FIRST DAY) postmarks are stamped on the stamp and the illustration, bearing the inscription "BATHYSCAPHE ARCHIMEDE – PARIS".

A franked postage stamp, also depicting the Archimède bathyscaphe, is affixed to the envelope, in blue-grey tones. The envelope is protected by a transparent plastic sleeve, suggesting careful preservation.

In the lower left, a red "ARTISTE GRAVEUR" (ENGRAVER ARTIST) stamp is visible, certifying an official edition. A handwritten annotation "1UP" appears in the lower right on the envelope or sleeve. The back is not visible in the photo.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The envelope appears well-preserved in a plastic sleeve, with no major apparent defects on the visible side. Possible micro-marks due to handling or storage.

Did you know? The Archimède bathyscaphe was a French manned submarine launched in 1961, designed for deep-sea exploration. It reached a depth of 9,545 meters in the Kuril Trench in 1962, making it one of the most powerful vessels of its time for scientific underwater exploration.

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