Strasbourg 1973 Alsace Storks FDC Philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated envelope is a "First Day Cover" (FDC) issued on the occasion of the release of a stamp on the theme of Alsatian storks. On the left side, a large color illustration depicts three storks on their nest, with typical half-timbered Alsatian houses in the background. The image is framed by a thin decorative border, and the caption "Cigognes d’Alsace" (Storks of Alsace) appears at the bottom of the illustration.

The right side of the envelope features several round postmarks, all dated "12 MAI 1973" (May 12, 1973) and marked "PREMIER JOUR STRASBOURG" (First Day Strasbourg), as well as the inscription "LA CIGOGNE D’ALSACE" (The Stork of Alsace). A stylized signature of a stork in flight appears in the center of the postmark, reinforcing the regional identity of the item. The envelope is protected by a transparent plastic film visible in the photo.

In the upper left, there is the inscription "Modèle déposé exclusivité O.P." (Registered design O.P. exclusivity) and, just below the image, "HRB – PARIS". These elements attest to careful manufacturing, typical of French commemorative envelopes of the period.

The visible front shows no major apparent defects: the printing is clear, the colors of the illustration are well preserved, and no creases or stains are observable in the photographed area. A small handwritten insert "10F" is glued to the protective film, likely an old price or inventory reference.

The mentions "PREMIER JOUR D’EMISSION" (First Day of Issue) and "FIRST DAY COVER" at the bottom left confirm the philatelic nature of the item, intended for stamp enthusiasts and postal history collectors.

Condition

Used item, sold as is, as seen in the photo. Illustrated front in very good visual condition, plastic protection present.

Did you know? The white stork has been an emblematic symbol of Alsace since the 19th century. "First Day" envelopes (FDCs) are issued when a new stamp is released: they bear the postmark of the exact day of issue, making them sought-after items for postal history.

AFW Reassurance

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Keywords: first day envelope, Strasbourg 1973, FDC Alsace, stork stamp, philately France, first day issue, First Day Cover France, postal souvenir, illustrated envelope, special postmark, HRB Paris, Alsace stork cover