CEF Centenary of the Automobile Commemorative Sheet 3.00 F stamp philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description
This commemorative souvenir sheet, published by CEF (Courrier d’Entreprise à la Française), illustrates the centenary of the automobile. The visible side features a large, colorful illustration depicting a period scene with an old automobile with four large green wheels, occupied by four figures dressed in historical attire. The scene highlights the pioneering aspect of the automobile, with a refined graphic style and pastel colors. The illustration is signed by Jean Delpech, mentioned as Grand Prix de Rome for Engraving and professor at the École Polytechnique.

In the upper right, the souvenir sheet bears the title "Centenaire de l’Automobile" (Centenary of the Automobile) as well as an explanatory text detailing the history and evolution of the automobile, from its beginnings to its industrial rise. A French 3.00 franc stamp, with a First Day cancellation dated October 6, 1984, in Paris, is integrated into the design, highlighting the commemorated event. The postmark includes the mention "Centenaire de l’Automobile Paris" and the image of an old automobile.

The souvenir sheet is distinguished by its fine border and neat presentation on white paper. The side inscriptions specify the CEF reference and catalog number 7944. The accompanying text, in French, traces the technical and human history of the automobile, citing major inventors and pioneers in the sector.

The item is presented flat, with the illustrated side perfectly legible. No major defects are visible on the shown side: the surface appears clean, the colors well-preserved, and the printing sharp. This type of souvenir sheet is particularly sought after for its historical illustration, the quality of its texts, and the presence of the First Day cancellation.

This souvenir sheet is a typical philatelic item, also known as a "First Day cover" or "commemorative philatelic document," valued for its documentary worth and the richness of its visual details.

Condition
Used item sold as is. The illustrated side shown is in good visual condition, with no apparent snags or significant signs of wear on the visible part.

Did you know? The first internal combustion engine automobile in history, designed by Karl Benz in 1885, was closely followed by many French inventors, including Panhard, Peugeot, and de Dion-Bouton. France was long a world leader in automobile production and technical innovation at the turn of the 20th century.

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Keywords: philatelic souvenir sheet, First Day document, CEF, automobile stamp, commemorative envelope, auto centenary, Jean Delpech, 3 franc stamp, philately France, illustrated document, vintage car, automotive history