Lot of French Ceres 25c blue stamps, canceled, 19th century philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot consists of numerous antique French stamps depicting the profile of Ceres, all visible on the front. These stamps feature a bright blue dominant color, typical of the 25-centime Ceres issued in the 19th century. The central motif is that of a woman's head in profile, surrounded by an ornamental frame and the mention "REPUB. FRANC." at the top. The cancellations are varied, mainly black numbered or lettered postmarks, clearly visible on all stamps.

The presentation shows the stamps arranged on a black album page, which highlights the characteristic blue background color and the design details. The margins and perforations are visible on most of the copies, with some stamps on envelope fragments and others isolated. There are various shades of blue, ranging from light blue to a deeper blue depending on the copy, reflecting differences in printing or wear over time.

Circular and grid cancellations are very present, some with distinct numbers, others with letters or geometric patterns, which adds an appreciated variety to the set. Most stamps show signs of use; some margins are irregular or slightly frayed, which is common for this type of old issue.

The arrangement in the photo allows for observation of a nice diversity in cancellation impressions, as well as some variations in paper tone and print freshness. No details of the reverse side are visible; the description therefore only pertains to the front.

Several stamps, particularly at the bottom of the lot, are on letter or envelope fragments, which adds additional postal interest. The lot thus offers a varied panel of 25-centime blue Ceres stamps, ideal for an in-depth philatelic study of this period of French postal history.

Condition

Used items, sold as-is. Stamps show signs of use, prominent cancellations, and sometimes irregular margins. Some copies are on paper fragments. The overall condition remains consistent with the age and postal use of these 19th-century stamps.

Did you know? The Ceres type, designed by Jacques-Jean Barre, was France's first official postage stamp, issued in 1849. The 25-centime blue was widely used for franking domestic letters under the Second Empire and the Third Republic.

AFW Reassurance

Careful and fast shipping, appropriate packaging to ensure the protection of the lot during transport. Professional seller, expertise and seriousness guaranteed.

Keywords: blue Ceres stamp, 19th century France stamp, cancelled stamps lot, French philately, classic post, Ceres 25c, stamp France, classic French stamps, old French stamps, grid cancellation, philatelic lot, Second Empire postage stamp