First Day Cover FDC 1959 Marianne stamp France philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated envelope is a First Day Cover (FDC) issued in France in December 1959, dedicated to the theme of Marianne. On the visible side, there is a stylized illustration depicting the allegorical figure of Marianne standing on a ship's bow, in front of a blue, white, and red tricolour flag. The golden lines suggest a radiating glow behind the scene, typical of official graphics from the post-war period.

The upper part of the envelope bears the inscription "PREMIER JOUR D'ÉMISSION F.D.C." (FIRST DAY OF ISSUE F.D.C.) in red. In the bottom left, the text "ÉMISSION DU TIMBRE MINISTRES DES P.T.T. DÉCEMBRE 1959" (STAMP ISSUE P.T.T. MINISTERS DECEMBER 1959) is also visible in red, indicating the context of the commemorative stamp's issue. Two round postmarks are visible, featuring the mention "PARIS", the date 19-12-59, as well as other elements specific to First Day cancellations.

The envelope has a matte finish and appears to be protected by a transparent plastic sleeve. A small sticker with the number "108" is visible in the lower right corner, likely for a classification reference. The overall appearance is neat, with no major apparent defects on the visible side.

The dominant colours are white, blue, red, and gold for the illustration, with red printed inscriptions and black postmarks. The graphics are typical of First Day Covers from the late 1950s, with a clear layout and symbolic design.

This type of envelope is sought after for its commemorative illustration and its first day cancellation, two important criteria in thematic and postal philately. The format is that of a standard First Day Cover, with no explicit dimensions indicated.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Visible side in good overall condition, clear illustration and postmarks, plastic protection present.

Did you know? Marianne is a French republican symbol appearing on many stamps and official documents since the Revolution. First Day Covers (FDC) are issued to mark the release of a new stamp, with a specific cancellation for the date and place of issue.

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Keywords: First Day Cover, FDC France, Marianne stamp, 1959 cancellation, French philately, postage stamp, illustrated cover, First Day Cover, France stamp issue, commemorative envelope, postal cachet, French stamp cover