CEF Verdun 1976 Philatelic Souvenir Sheet Sacred Way 1F stamp cancelled WW1

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This illustrated philatelic sheet, issued by the CEF (Cercle des Émissions de France), commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Verdun (1916-1976). On the visible side, the main illustration depicts a French World War I soldier, seen from behind, observing a trench under fire, with a "Voie Sacrée" milestone beside him showing the value 55. The graphic atmosphere highlights sepia, grey, and brown tones, typical of war scenes, with touches of red suggesting explosions on the horizon.

In the upper right corner, the sheet bears the inscription "1916 VERDUN 1976" as well as a 1.00 franc French postage stamp, illustrated with a commemorative motif matching the Verdun theme. The stamp is cancelled with a clearly visible round "VERDUN 1916-1976" postmark, reinforcing the philatelic value of the whole. On the right, a text printed in French details the historical context of the Battle of Verdun, recalling the importance of the Voie Sacrée and the events of 1916.

The sheet is mounted on a pre-perforated cardboard page, typical of CEF series, with "N° 362 du catalogue CEF" and the limited edition mention (here, numbered copy 3343) on the left margin. The left part also indicates the distribution of the print run by language. The whole features a neat layout, framed by a golden border, and quality printing consistent with the tradition of CEF issues.

The inscriptions are clear, and the entire sheet, including the stamp and postmark, is well-preserved on the visible part. This type of philatelic document is sought after for its historical interest and meticulous presentation, with iconography emblematic of the First World War.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible sheet is in good overall condition, with no apparent defects on the side shown. The print and postmark are clear, with no notable folds or stains on the photographed area.

Did you know? The "Voie Sacrée" (Sacred Way) refers to the strategic road connecting Bar-le-Duc to Verdun, essential for supplying and defending the city during the Battle of 1916. Over 3,000 trucks traveled on it daily during the conflict, ensuring the survival of the front. The milestone depicted on the sheet commemorates this crucial role in French military history.

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Keywords: philatelic sheet, CEF, Verdun 1976, commemorative stamp, Voie Sacrée, World War I, WW1 stamp, cancellation, France issue, philately, souvenir card, 1916 trench, historical philately