First Day Cover National Gendarmerie coat of arms FDC philately France

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated envelope, visible in the photo, is a First Day Cover (FDC) issued in France. It honors the Gendarmerie Nationale, identifiable by the heraldic crest on the left side: a blue shield adorned with a silver grenade surmounted by a knight's helmet, all on an orange background. The whole is framed by a decorative motif evoking the tradition of French coats of arms.

On the right side of the envelope, two round postmarks are clearly visible, with the inscription "GENDARMERIE NATIONALE PREMIER JOUR PARIS" and the issue date. These official postmarks, used on the First Day, confirm the philatelic authenticity of this item. A French postage stamp illustrated with the same Gendarmerie Nationale crest is also visible, along with its face value and the mention "POSTES."

The envelope is protected in a transparent plastic sleeve, ensuring the preservation of the document's condition. In the bottom left, the inscription "GENDARMERIE NATIONALE" is printed in capital letters. The mention "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION – FIRST DAY COVER" also appears in blue, highlighting the specific nature of this envelope for enthusiasts of thematic philately and commemorative postal documents.

The background of the envelope is white, with an elegant and neat presentation. A small handwritten or printed number "125" appears on a label stuck in the bottom right, likely an internal reference or classification number. No other decorative elements or text are visible on the presented side.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The envelope is well-preserved, in a protective sleeve, with no apparent defects visible on the presented side.

Did you know? First Day Covers, or FDCs, are philatelic souvenirs issued on the official release of a stamp. They bear a specific postmark with the issue date, making them sought-after items for documenting postal history and the represented theme, in this case, the French Gendarmerie Nationale.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping are ensured by a professional seller. The item will be protected to guarantee safe delivery.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC France, First Day Cover, Gendarmerie Nationale, philatelic crest, commemorative postage stamp, official postmark, France issue, illustrated envelope, philatelic souvenir, French stamp cover, coats of arms France