First Day Cover Besançon clock philately stamp FDC

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated envelope, visible in the photo, is a "First Day Cover" (FDC) dedicated to the Besançon clock. The front shows a detailed illustration of the Besançon clock building, accompanied by a brightly colored coat of arms in the upper left corner. The words "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION" (First Day of Issue) and the number "No 241" are printed in the upper right of the illustration. A round postmark with the inscription "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION / 19 MAI 62 / BESANCON" is stamped on and near the stamp, attesting to the official release date of this philatelic document.

The visible stamp, affixed in the upper right, features the Besançon clock motif and includes legible inscriptions, notably "POSTES", "HORLOGE DE BESANÇON", and the date. A second identical postmark is applied, reinforcing the philatelic value of the entire piece. The envelope is protected by a transparent plastic sleeve, which has preserved the surface appearance and colors of the document. The paper has a smooth finish and the prints are clear, with no apparent defects on the visible side.

In the lower right, there is a small white square with the handwritten inscription "10F", likely an old price tag. The bottom of the envelope bears the printed inscription "HORLOGE DE BESANÇON" in capitals, as well as a round blue logo on the left, typical of official Post Office stamps of the era.

The ensemble presents a classic composition of First Day Covers, with an illustration, stamp, and commemorative postmark. The overall aesthetic evokes French philatelic productions from the early 1960s, confirmed by the postmark date "19 MAI 62".

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side is in good apparent condition, protected under plastic. Small creases or marks possible due to storage or handling, not visible in the photo.

AFW Reassurance

Fast and careful shipping, professional packaging adapted for the protection of philatelic documents.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC France, Besançon clock, commemorative stamp, postal mark, philately cover, special issue, illustrated envelope, first day of issue, French post, collector's envelope, French FDC