Molière 1973 FDC CEF Paris Death Tricentennial First Day Cover

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Illustrated commemorative envelope, from a First Day issue, dedicated to the tercentenary of Molière's death. On the visible side, the envelope features a large, colorful illustration predominantly in red, green, and beige, depicting a theatrical scene referencing Molière's work or life, with a costumed character and a typical 17th-century stage setting. At the top of the illustration is the inscription "TRICENTENAIRE DE LA MORT" (TERCENTENARY OF THE DEATH) and at the bottom "1673-1973" as well as "DE MOLIÈRE" (OF MOLIÈRE).

The perfectly legible First Day postmark bears the inscription "TRICENTENAIRE DE LA MORT DE MOLIÈRE – PREMIER JOUR – 20-10-1973 – PARIS" (TERCENTENARY OF MOLIÈRE'S DEATH – FIRST DAY – 20-10-1973 – PARIS), accompanied by a stylized face of Molière. Two impressions of the postmark are present on the right side of the envelope. The inscription "PREMIER JOUR D’ÉMISSION – FIRST DAY COVER" is printed in blue below the main illustration.

The envelope also bears the "CEF" (Cercle des Émetteurs Français) logo, attesting to its official edition. A handwritten or printed number "101" appears in the bottom right, suggesting a limited or numbered series, visible under the protective plastic film.

The visible side shows a flat envelope, carefully protected by a transparent plastic sleeve. No stamp is visible on the photographed side, which is common for some illustrated FDCs where the First Day postmark is the central element.

The overall presentation is neat, the illustration retains vivid colors, and the inscriptions are clear. No major defects, creases, or stains are visible on the visible part, except for some reflections due to the plastic sleeve.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side is in good overall condition, with no apparent wear or significant alteration.

Did you know? The "Premier Jour d'Émission" (FDC – First Day Cover) postmark indicates that the envelope was cancelled on the very first day of circulation of the stamp or commemorative issue. CEF envelopes are renowned for the quality of their illustrations and are published to mark major French philatelic events.

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Keywords: Molière commemorative envelope, first day issue, FDC France, CEF philately, 1973 Paris postmark, illustrated envelope, Molière tercentenary, First Day Cover France, special cancellation, theatre themed envelope, Molière 1673-1973, French FDC