First Day Cover FDC Philatelic Congress Lens illustrated coat of arms

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Illustrated First Day Cover (FDC), dedicated to the Lens Philatelic Congress. The main visual features a stylized coat of arms, dominated by a graphic representation of a central yellow and red building on a blue background, surrounded by symbolic elements and fleurs-de-lis, typical of regional heraldry. The entire graphic design is signed "Gambet" in the lower left of the illustration.

The envelope features a clear first-day cancellation, with the inscription "PREMIER JOUR 62-LENS" (FIRST DAY 62-LENS), dated May 24, 1975. The rectangular stamp is affixed to the upper right and displays a red, well-centered motif. Several inscriptions are visible: "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION" (FIRST DAY OF ISSUE), "N° 223", "F.D.C.", and a mention of the congress in the lower left. A round red stamp of the philatelic club also appears in the lower left.

The visible side shows an envelope in good overall condition, protected by a transparent plastic film. No major signs of wear, folds, or stains are observable on the exposed surface. A small handwritten "10F" label is affixed to the plastic protection, with no impact on the envelope itself.

This First Day Cover (FDC) is typical of French commemorative issues associated with regional philatelic events. The graphic design, issue date, and specific congress stamp give this item a unique character.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side shows no major defects; the plastic protection may have preserved the envelope but may show some reflections or superficial creases. The precise condition of the other sides is not observable in the photo.

Did you know? First Day Covers (FDC) are designed to commemorate the first official circulation of a stamp. They are generally illustrated and canceled with the postmark of the issue date, which gives them a particular documentary and historical value in the philatelic field.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping ensured by a professional seller, to guarantee the preservation of the envelope during transport.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC Lens, philatelic coat of arms, commemorative stamp, first day cancel, philatelic congress, philately cover, illustrated envelope, Lens 1975, Gambet illustration, stamped envelope, first day letter