CEF Council of Europe 1989 sheet, cancelled stamps, blue bird, philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This CEF philatelic souvenir sheet is dedicated to the Council of Europe and commemorates its 40th anniversary in 1989. The visible side features a meticulous composition with two canceled French postage stamps, each illustrated with a stylized motif and distinct face values: 2.20 and 3.60 (0.50 ECU). The stamps are accompanied by a round Strasbourg postmark dated May 5, 1989, bearing the inscription "Conseil de l'Europe" (Council of Europe).

The souvenir sheet is distinguished by a large illustration on the right, depicting a stylized blue dove, a symbol of peace, adorned with twelve yellow stars arranged in a circle, reminiscent of the European flag. The illustration is signed by Ève Luquet, a painter, who designed the entire graphic layout of this souvenir sheet and its stamps.

The lower part includes printed explanatory text, presenting the history and role of the Council of Europe, as well as its commitment to human rights and democracy in Europe. The whole is framed by a golden border and presented on a quality cardboard sheet, in the classic horizontal format for this type of philatelic issue.

The left edge of the souvenir sheet shows the typical perforation of CEF sheets, as well as a printed reference “N° 306 du catalogue CEF” and the number “5520” at the bottom left. The set is kept in a plastic sleeve, ensuring good protection of the visible side.

The main colors are vibrant blue, black, yellow, and pastel tones on the stamps. The overall condition of the visible side is very good, with no apparent creases or stains, and a clean, professional presentation.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side shows no notable defects; the stamps and illustration are clear and well preserved.

Did you know? The Council of Europe, founded in 1949, is the oldest intergovernmental European organization dedicated to the defense of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Its European Convention on Human Rights, adopted in 1950, is one of the most influential legal texts on the continent.

AFW Reassurance

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Keywords: first day sheet, CEF, Council of Europe, canceled stamp, FDC, blue dove, France philatelic issue, souvenir envelope, philately, Europa stamps, commemorative stamp, thematic sheet, Strasbourg 1989