Beech tree (CEF Fagus sylvatica) philatelic souvenir sheet with illustrated botanical stamp

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This philatelic sheet issued by CEF features the Common Beech, a major European forest species. The visible side shows a central color illustration of a majestic beech tree, surrounded by figures and houses in the background, in a refined graphic style. The illustrated stamp, integrated into the sheet, was designed by Huguette Sainson, as indicated by the inscription below the illustration. To the right of the visual, a detailed text describes the botanical characteristics and the importance of the beech in the forest ecosystem.

The sheet also features a commemorative cancellation, with a first day cover postmark dated September 27, 1986, in Orléans. This postmark includes a stylized representation of beech leaves and fruits, as well as the inscription "Journée du Hêtre pour l'avenir" (Beech Day for the Future), reinforcing the thematic and philatelic aspect of the item.

The layout is framed by a golden fillet, adding an elegant touch to the whole. The number 245 in the bottom left suggests a limited and numbered edition. The side inscriptions specify that it is a CEF edition, with a catalogue reference and the printer's mention.

The sheet is made of a white smooth cardboard support, with black printed text and a central color illustration. The perforations on the left indicate a format designed to be inserted into a philatelic album.

The observable general condition is very good: no snags, folds, or visible stains on the presented side. The colors remain vibrant, the text perfectly legible, and the postmark clear.

Condition

Used item sold as is, as shown in the photo. The presented side shows no notable defects or apparent alterations.

Did you know? The Common Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is one of the most widespread trees in temperate European forests. Its homogeneous wood, easy to work with, is widely used in carpentry and for making railway sleepers. France regularly dedicates philatelic issues to it to highlight its ecological and economic role.

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Keywords: CEF sheet, botanical stamp, first day cover, common beech, forest tree, Orléans cancellation, French philately, Fagus sylvatica, philatelic document, illustrated card, botanical stamp, French FDC, tree stamp