First day cover NATO 1949-1959 Paris philately stamp France

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Illustrated commemorative envelope, issued on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), covering the period 1949-1959. The visible side features a central design composed of a large stylized blue and white compass rose, surrounded by flags of various NATO member countries, including Belgium, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, and others, recognizable by their distinctive colors and symbols. The inscription "1949 - 1959" is also printed in black on the left side, highlighting the celebrated period.

In the upper right corner, the envelope bears the printed inscription "ENVELOPPE HISTORIQUE OTAN No141" (HISTORIC NATO ENVELOPE No141), confirming its philatelic nature and reference. A blue postal cancellation applied to the front reads: "SESSION MINISTERIELLE 14-12 1959 OTAN PARIS" (MINISTERIAL SESSION 14-12 1959 NATO PARIS), indicating the date and location of the event. A French stamp is visible in the lower right, depicting a modern building and the NATO logo, accompanied by a second identical blue cancellation.

The envelope is kept under clear plastic protection, which helps preserve its original visual appearance. No folds or tears are visible on the front, and the surface appears clean and without major blemishes. A small handwritten number and a "10F" label are applied in the lower right corner, likely for identification or pricing during a previous exhibition or sale.

The graphic design, with the compass rose and flags, reflects an aesthetic typical of the late 1950s, associated with official commemorative productions. The colors are vibrant, primarily blue, white, red, yellow, and black, and the printing remains crisp on the visible part.

This first day cover (FDC) is a philatelic testament to the international diplomacy of the era, combining historical value and visual appeal for collectors of thematic philately, particularly French postal history and international institutions.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side is in very good overall condition, with no apparent defects, protected under a clear plastic sleeve. The condition of the other sides is not visible in the photo.

Did you know? NATO was founded in 1949, and its headquarters were located in Paris until 1967. "First day" covers commemorate major events with a special postmark, often sought after for their historical and documentary value.

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Keywords: philatelic envelope, first day cover, FDC, NATO, France stamp, commemorative, special cancellation, Paris 1959, NATO cover, philatelic envelope, country flags, illustrated envelope, postal history