CEF Marianne of the Bicentennial 1991 sheet postal rate changes F stamps

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This CEF philatelic sheet features a composition centered around the "Marianne of the Bicentennial," an iconic figure in French philately. The item is structured on a white cardboard support, adorned with a large stylized blue visual representing the profile of Marianne, a work by Briat-Jumelet. Three authentic postage stamps, each of a different color (blue, green, pink), are affixed to the upper right part of the sheet. Each of these stamps bears a first day postmark dated August 30, 1991, in Paris, highlighting the commemoration of a postal rate change that occurred on that date.

The sheet is titled "POSTAL RATE MODIFICATION – MARIANNE OF THE BICENTENNIAL," a caption clearly printed in the lower left under the illustration. The printed text explanations on the right detail the function of each stamp, in relation to the new rates at the time: 2 F 50 red, 2 F 20 green, 3 F 40 blue, 4 F pink. Only the blue, green, and pink stamps are visible on this sheet.

The left side of the support indicates that it is a CEF issue, with the mention "N° 1681 du catalogue CEF" printed in the upper left corner, as well as information on the limited edition (30,300 copies, including 13,500 on silk) and the individual sheet number, here "448."

The overall presentation is meticulously laid out, typical of French philatelic productions from the late 20th century, with a large graphic illustration, authentic stamps, and detailed information on the commemorated postal event. The main colors are blue, green, and pink, with clear contrasts against a white background. The sheet is perforated on the left, designed for binder filing.

Condition

Used item and sold as-is. The visible edges and surface are in good general condition in the photo, with no apparent major defects. Visible sheet number: 448.

Did you know? The "Marianne of the Bicentennial" was created by Louis Briat to celebrate the bicentennial of the French Revolution and symbolize the Republic on French stamps starting in 1989. This type was widely distributed on regular and commemorative issues until the mid-1990s.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping are provided by a professional seller specializing in philately and French collectibles.

Keywords: first day sheet, Marianne stamp, French Bicentennial, CEF philately, postal rate modification, FDC envelope, numbered issue, France stamps 1991, philatelic card, Briat-Jumelet, Marianne stamp France, French FDC