CEF Europa Sheet Discovery of the AIDS Virus cancelled 1993 philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This CEF philatelic souvenir sheet honors the "EUROPA – Discovery of the AIDS Virus" issue. It is an official document of French philately, published by the CEF (Centrale d’Édition Philatélique), with a limited print run (visible number: 2656). The sheet features a French postage stamp with a face value of 2.80 F, illustrated by a very colorful composition, accompanied by a first day cancellation "EUROPA LES DÉCOUVERTES – 17-4-93 – STRASBOURG".

The layout highlights the actual stamp, affixed to the sheet on the left, while an enlarged reproduction of the stamp's illustration occupies the main part on the right. It features vibrant colors: yellow, blue, pink, orange, and black, in a contemporary graphic style, as well as a handwritten inscription "SIDA HIV" integrated into the image.

The main title "EUROPA Discovery of the AIDS virus" is printed at the top of the souvenir sheet. A detailed explanatory text, printed in black on a white background, traces the scientific history of the discovery of the AIDS virus (HIV), notably citing Luc Montagnier, Françoise Barré-Sinoussi, and other major researchers. The presentation is meticulous, typical of CEF souvenir sheets, with an elegant and informative layout.

The souvenir sheet is perforated on the left for binder filing and bears the mention "Tirage limité" (Limited edition) at the bottom left, with the individual number 2656. The printed reference "N° 1118 A du catalogue CEF" is also noted.

The visible side shows no apparent major defects: the surface of the sheet is clean, with no folds or stains visible in the photo. The printing of the text, illustration, and special cancellation is clear and well-contrasted.

Condition

This philatelic souvenir sheet is used and sold as is. The photo shows a very satisfactory overall condition, with no notable defects on the visible side. Numbering and cancellation are clearly legible.

Did you know? The "Discovery of the AIDS virus" stamp was issued in 1993 as part of the Europa emissions, which each year honor a common theme among European countries. The HIV virus was first isolated in 1983 by Luc Montagnier's team at the Pasteur Institute, a major advance in the fight against the global epidemic.

AFW Reassurance

Your order will be carefully prepared and promptly shipped by a professional seller, with suitable packaging to ensure the safety of the souvenir sheet during transport.

Keywords: first day cover, Europa stamp, AIDS cancellation, French philately, CEF Strasbourg, philatelic document, HIV stamp, commemorative sheet, French stamp 1993, numbered sheet, Europa stamp, philately France