First Day Cover Nantes 1963 Flora FDC philately stamp flowers
AFW - Antique France Worldwide
Description
This illustrated envelope is a First Day Cover ("FDC") issued in Nantes in May 1963, as indicated by the clearly legible circular postmark. On the visible side, the envelope features a colorful and detailed illustration of various flowers (tulip, rose, grape hyacinth, violet, forget-me-not, etc.), accompanied by a building identifiable as a greenhouse or pavilion, typical of the floral and horticultural theme. The vibrant color printing enhances the decorative aspect of this philatelic piece.
The envelope bears a stamp matching the illustration, also postmarked in Nantes, with the inscription "FLORALIES NANTAISES" and the date May 6, 1963. The text "PREMIER JOUR D'ÉMISSION" (First Day of Issue) is visible in the upper right, followed by the number 465 and the mention "HISTORIQUE" (HISTORICAL). The blue commemorative postmark reinforces the authenticity of this first-day cover, sought after by collectors of thematic philately and regional events.
In the lower left section, the inscription "FLORALIES NANTAISES du 6 Mai 1963" is printed in black, with a red stamp specific to the event. A small handwritten "CDF" sticker is visible in the lower right of the displayed side. The envelope is protected by a transparent plastic sleeve, which helps preserve its overall condition.
The visual highlights the rich graphic quality of the flowers and the finesse of the printing from that era. The stamp, perfectly aligned with the illustration, makes this envelope a typical example of French FDCs from the early 1960s, with refined aesthetics and high legibility of the postal and illustrative inscriptions.
Condition
Used item sold as is. The visible side appears in very good condition, with no stains or significant creases, protected by a plastic sleeve. The colors remain sharp, and the postmark is perfectly legible. No major defects are observable on the exposed part.
Did you know? The Floralies Internationales de Nantes (Nantes International Flower Show) is a major flower exhibition held since 1956. First Day Covers related to this event are prized for their specific iconography and regional cachet, attesting to the importance of event philately in France in the 1960s.
AFW Reassurance
Careful packaging and fast shipping are provided by a professional seller specializing in philately and antique correspondence items.
Keywords: FDC envelope, first day of issue, Nantes 1963, Floralies Nantaises, flower stamp, French philately, special postmark, illustrated envelope, commemorative letter, First Day Cover, French stamp, floral stamp, philatelic event