First Day Cover FDC Louis XI Charles the Bold philately 1985

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Illustrated philatelic envelope, first day of issue (FDC) type, dedicated to the historical event between Louis XI and Charles the Bold. The visible side features a full-color illustration depicting two figures in medieval attire, in a stylized, heavily inked scene with architectural details in the background. The dominant colors are red, black, and beige, with the central figure dressed in red highlighted. The inscription "PREMIER JOUR D'ÉMISSION" (FIRST DAY OF ISSUE) is clearly legible at the top, followed by "HISTORIQUE F.D.C." (HISTORICAL F.D.C.) and the number 691. The legend "LOUIS XI ET CHARLES LE TEMERAIRE" (LOUIS XI AND CHARLES THE BOLD) is also printed at the bottom left.

A postage stamp is affixed to the right side of the envelope, accompanied by a postmark dated May 18, 1985, from Paris, which features the stylized faces of the two historical protagonists. The envelope is protected by a transparent plastic sleeve, ensuring the legibility and preservation of the illustrated front. A handwritten label "12F" is visible at the bottom right, likely an old price indication.

The overall presentation features a graphic composition typical of French philatelic editions from the 1980s, balancing historical illustration with postal elements. No clearly legible manufacturer's mark appears on the visible side, but the illustrator's signature "Decaris" is present, a testament to careful artistic execution.

The printing details, the quality of the first-day vignette, and the sharpness of the postmark make this envelope a representative example of French commemorative issues. The item is intended for conservation or display in a philatelic album, thanks to its flat format and plastic protection.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The envelope appears to be well-preserved under plastic protection, with no major apparent flaws on the visible side. Some superficial marks on the plastic sleeve, with no impact on the illustration or on the visible stamp and postmark.

Did you know? The tradition of the "first day of issue" (FDC, First Day Cover) involves issuing special envelopes postmarked on the same day a stamp is officially released. French FDC envelopes are often illustrated by renowned artists, such as Albert Decaris, who signed numerous commemorative issues for the French Post Office.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller specializing in philately and postal items.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC France, Louis XI stamp, Charles the Bold, historical philately, 1985 postmark, Decaris edition, commemorative envelope, first day cover, philatelic cover, stamped illustration, historical stamp France