Lot of Ceres 25c blue stamps, used, France 19th Century, classic philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Lot of Ceres 25 centimes blue stamps – 19th Century France

This lot features a significant collection of Ceres 25 centimes blue French postage stamps, all postmarked, from the classic period of the 19th century. The stamps are presented on a black background, which highlights the vivid blue to pale blue hue, depending on the individual stamp. Each stamp bears the famous profile of the goddess Ceres, surrounded by the legend "RÉPUB. FRANC." and the face value "25c". The design showcases a characteristic engraving fineness of French issues from this era.

The majority of visible stamps bear numeral or lozenge cancellations, testifying to their postal use. The cancellations vary in intensity, some partially covering the face, others more discreet. The general condition of the stamps is typical of an old lot: serrated edges sometimes irregular, different shades of blue, and the presence of stamps on fragments of postal stationery, which attests to their postal authenticity.

A diversity of blue shades can be observed, ranging from light blue to deeper blue, depending on the print run and exposure over time. Some examples show signs of handling or aging, such as slightly bent corners, creases, or small stains, without compromising the legibility of the main design. Some stamps have wider margins, while others are trimmed or show variable centering.

The lot includes a majority of classic format stamps, all from the same issue, with variations in cancellations typical of the period. The cancellations are perfectly visible on most examples. No reverse details are visible in the photo; only the illustrated front side is described here.

This lot constitutes a representative overview of 19th-century French philately, with its ancient manufacturing characteristics, its nuances of shades, and the variety of its postal cancellations. The collection is intended to illustrate the graphic and historical richness of the Ceres issues, milestones in the history of the French stamp.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The stamps show traces of use, varied cancellations, sometimes bent corners or irregular edges, and color nuances related to their postal history. See photo for precise details of each example.

Did you know? The Ceres type, designed by Jacques-Jean Barre, was the first stamp issued by France in 1849. The 25c blue, used for local mail and some international correspondence, is a major reference in classic French philately and has known numerous shades depending on the print runs and years.

AFW Reassurance

Your order will be carefully prepared and promptly shipped by a professional seller, in suitable packaging to ensure the safety of the stamps during transport.

Keywords: Ceres stamp, 25c blue stamp, 19th century France, cancelled, classic philately, lot of old French stamps, French stamp, Ceres stamp, French post, lozenge cancellation, French Republic stamp, 19th century blue stamp, classic postage stamp