First Day of Issue Martrou Bridge Charente FDC philatelic envelope

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This First Day Cover (FDC) features the Pont de Martrou over the Charente River, as shown in the color photograph on the front. The image depicts this famous lifting bridge, an iconic structure in Rochefort, with a view of the river and part of the metal framework. The card's border is adorned with a decorative blue-green trim, highlighting the central visual.

In the upper left corner, the inscription "Modèle Déposé Exclusivité S.P.A." is clearly printed, attesting to an official edition. The visible side also bears the inscription "PREMIER JOUR D'ÉMISSION / FIRST DAY COVER" in the lower left, confirming the philatelic nature of the item, prized for commemorating major postal events.

Two circular postmarks are clearly applied to the right side of the envelope, both legible with the inscription "PONT DE MARTRU - PREMIER JOUR - 20-7-68 - ROCHEFORT S/CHARENTE". They mark the precise date of issue, July 20, 1968, and the place of cancellation. The postmark's design features a stylized illustration of the bridge, in harmony with the card's theme.

The envelope is protected in a transparent plastic sleeve, which limits visual access to other details but ensures optimal preservation of the visible surface. A handwritten label with "10F" is affixed in the lower right corner, likely an old catalog number or price, without affecting the document's integrity.

The whole presents a neat visual appearance, with no major visible defects on the exposed side. The photo reveals a flat surface, with no marked creases or apparent tears. The plastic sleeve hints at a smooth underlying texture and protects the quality of the original printing and postmarks.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Clean visible side, with clear postmarks and well-preserved colors. Plastic sleeve present; slight superficial wear on the protective film possible.

Did you know? The Pont de Martrou, inaugurated in 1967 in Rochefort, is one of the few surviving transporter bridges in Europe. It replaced an older swing bridge and remains a symbol of French technical heritage, recognized for its innovative architecture adapted to the intensive river navigation of the Charente.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful professional packaging guaranteed, with tracking and attention paid to the preservation of the item.

Keywords: first day cover, FDC France, Pont de Martrou Rochefort, Charente philately, first day cover, commemorative card, 1968 postmark, lifting bridge illustration, stamped envelope France, SPA model, philately France, postal cover