Philatelic sheet CEF 1916 Verdun 1976 Sacred Way First World War

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This official philatelic sheet, published by the CEF (Connaissance et Étude de la Philatélie), is dedicated to the Battle of Verdun, with the explicit mention "1916 VERDUN 1976" at the top of the document. The scene illustrated on the front depicts a helmeted soldier from behind, rifle in hand, facing a landscape of trenches, barbed wire, and explosions in the background, evoking the intensity of the fighting in the First World War. To the left, a "VOIE SACRÉE" sign and milestone 55 are visible, a major symbol of Verdun's logistics.

The upper right part of the sheet features a French postage stamp labeled "FRANCE 1,00", illustrated with commemorative elements of Verdun, with a first-day postmark dated "21 FÉV. 1976". Next to it, printed text in French recounts the historical events related to the Battle of Verdun, providing precise context for this philatelic issue. The catalog number "N°352 du catalogue CEF" is also noted on the side strip, as well as an item number "3342" at the bottom of the sheet.

The whole is presented in a three-hole punched transparent sleeve, typical of CEF sheets, which allows for optimal preservation and elegant presentation in a philatelic album. The main colors are sepia and gray tones, enhanced with red and orange touches for the explosions, accentuating the historical and commemorative aspect of the document.

This sheet is distinguished by the precision of its illustration, the print quality, and the richness of its historical content. It is a commemorative philatelic document, published in a limited edition, as indicated by the visible mention on the left ("limited edition of 24,500 copies").

The visible surface shows no obvious traces of stains, tears, or significant signs of wear. The sheet appears to be in good general condition, with clear colors and legible text, ideal for presentation in an album or dedicated frame.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The sheet visible in the photo shows no major apparent defects. The outlines, illustrations, and texts are clear. The plastic sleeve has the original perforations for filing.

Did you know? The "Voie Sacrée" was the strategic road connecting Bar-le-Duc to Verdun, used intensively during the 1916 battle to transport troops and equipment. It remains today a strong symbol of French resistance during the First World War.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping are guaranteed by a professional seller. Each sheet is handled with care to ensure its protection during transport.

Keywords: CEF sheet, Verdun 1916, commemorative stamp, Voie Sacrée, French philately, First World War, philatelic document, first day postmark, CEF philately, stamped sheet, Battle of Verdun, WWI stamp France