CEF Nature of France philatelic souvenir sheet marcasite 2.00 F minerals stamp

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This CEF philatelic souvenir sheet focuses on marcasite, as part of the "Nature de France" series dedicated to minerals. The visible side features a large, stylized central illustration of a female face adorned with a crystalline structure reminiscent of marcasite, with dominant shades of blue, purple, and gray. The graphic design blends geometric style with mineral inspiration, typical of contemporary thematic philatelic materials.

On the right, the souvenir sheet includes a postage stamp illustrated with a marcasite specimen on a white background, with a face value of 2.00 francs, accompanied by a commemorative postmark: "PREMIER JOUR – MARCASSITE DE FRANCE – 25 SEPTEMBRE 1999 – PARIS". This First Day cancellation confirms the philatelic nature of the item and its interest for research on French minerals.

Around the illustration, a detailed explanatory text occupies most of the surface, titled "LES MINÉRAUX : La marcassite". It describes the appearance, structure, use, and history of this mineral, and mentions several scientific facts. At the top of the sheet, the words "SÉRIE : NATURE DE FRANCE" are displayed in bold.

The souvenir sheet is mounted on an official CEF cardboard backing, bearing the inscription "CEF" (Créations Philatéliques France) on the left, the issue number (visible: 6472), as well as perforations for binder filing. The entire presentation is horizontal, typical of contemporary First Day philatelic issues.

The visible surface shows no major alterations. The printing is clear, the colors remain fresh, and no tears or creases are visible on the exposed side.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The visible side shows no notable defects, apart from possible slight handling marks. The cardboard backing and perforations appear intact in the photographed area.

Did you know? Marcasite is an iron sulfide mineral frequently used in 19th-century jewelry, as well as for object decoration and lithography. A First Day cover is a limited edition issue, often sought after for its commemorative postmark applied only on the official release day of the stamp.

AFW Reassurance

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Keywords: First Day souvenir sheet, CEF stamp, French minerals, marcasite philately, Nature de France, mineral stamp, FDC minerals, philatelic cover, Paris cancellation, mineral philatelic sheet, 2.00 F stamp, Premier Day France