Lot of used French stamps, various themes, philately, old postal history

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot consists of twenty-four cancelled French postage stamps, carefully presented on a black album page. Each stamp features varied illustrations and themes, ranging from historical portraits, monuments, sporting achievements, maritime scenes, to national commemorations. The colors are multiple and vibrant: blue, red, purple, green, orange, and even black, creating a beautiful overall effect on the page. Several stamps show fine graphic details, typical of mid-20th century French engraving.

Some visible stamps represent famous figures (Charles de Gaulle, Jacques Cartier, Pasteur, etc.), iconic buildings (cathedral, castle), as well as significant events (Population Census, Battle of Fontenoy 1745, 30th anniversary of the Liberation). Maritime themes are also observed with ships, allegories of navigation or trade, as well as scientific or medical subjects (discovery of quinine, Pasteur).

All stamps are cancelled, with visible postmarks from different cities and dates. Face values range from 0.10 to 3.00 francs, with mentions of "République Française," "Postes," "RF," and some specific surcharges. The diversity of designs and the quality of the illustrations offer a representative overview of French philatelic production from the modern era, mainly mid to late 20th century.

The lot includes vertical and horizontal formats, with some stamps showing clearly visible perforated margins. The themes covered include history, science, architecture, navigation, arts, and prominent French figures. Legible inscriptions such as "Recensement de la population" (Population Census), "1820 Découverte de la quinine" (1820 Discovery of Quinine), "30e anniversaire de la Libération" (30th anniversary of the Liberation), or "Bataille de Fontenoy 1745" (Battle of Fontenoy 1745) illustrate the variety of this selection.

The presentation on a black background highlights the color contrasts and graphic details. The stamps show normal signs of use for cancelled examples, with postmarks sometimes partially legible, testifying to their authentic postal circulation.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The stamps are cancelled, with signs of use, some marks, and visible postmarks. The overall presentation on the album page is good, with no major apparent defects on the visible side.

Did you know? France issued its first postage stamp in 1849, depicting Ceres, goddess of harvest. The tradition of French stamp engraving, renowned for its finesse, continued throughout the 20th century, highlighting both major national events and significant figures in history and science.

AFW Reassurance

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Keywords: French stamps, philately lot, cancelled stamps, French postage stamps, old stamp lot, thematic stamps, commemorative stamps, French stamps, stamps lot, philately France, historical stamp lot, illustrated stamps