CEF Leaflet The Otter 1988 First Day Stamps Natural History France

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated sheet, from the CEF catalog under number 914, highlights the otter, an emblematic mammal of the mustelid family. The front features a large color illustration of an otter at the water's edge, signed by artist Claude Haley, a painter and engraver mentioned at the bottom of the image. The sheet includes a detailed explanatory text on the biology, behavior, and distribution of the otter, with the distinctive title "LA LOUTRE" (THE OTTER) in the upper right.

In the lower left of the sheet, two official French Republic stamps are integrated, each priced at 2.00 francs. They are accompanied by "First Day" postmarks dated June 18, 1988, from Paris and Montbard, attesting to their issuance on the official first day. These stamps feature an animal motif consistent with the sheet's natural history theme.

The presentation is typical of First Day Covers (FDCs), combining philately and educational illustration. The entire piece is printed on white matte-finish paper, with a light brown border framing the main content. Perforations are visible on the left, suggesting compatibility with a filing system or philatelic binder.

The main text, perfectly legible, details the physical and behavioral characteristics of the otter, as well as its geographical distribution. This sheet highlights the richness of French natural history through philately, with an emphasis on species protection.

Note that the CEF 914 reference appears in the upper left, and the individual number 7835 is printed in the lower left, likely indicating a limited edition.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The front shows no major apparent defects; the sheet appears to be in good overall condition, with no noticeable creases or stains on the illustrated area or the stamps. Only the front side is described here.

Did you know? CEF (Connaissance et Étude de la Philatélie) is a recognized publisher in France for its First Day Sheets, combining scientific popularization and philately. Issues are often limited to a few thousand copies, making them appreciated resources for illustrating and educating about French animal species.

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Keywords: First Day Sheet, CEF France stamp, Natural History, otter philately, FDC France, Claude Haley, animal stamp, 1988 issue, First Day Paris, illustrated sheet, mustelid France, First Day Cover France