France Sower stamps, lot of 4 or 8, various values, philately

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot consists of several blocks of French "Semeuse" postage stamps, all visible in the photograph. Each block comprises four identical stamps, presented on a white sheet. The face values visible in the image are 45c, 50c, 60c, 65c, 75c, 80c, and 85c. Colors vary by value: pale purple for 45c and 60c, orange for 50c, 80c, and 85c, red for 65c, dark purple for 75c. Some blocks include printed margins or sheet edge fragments with visible typographic inscriptions (e.g., "09515", "7.8.28"). All stamps bear the inscription "REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE" at the top and feature the classic Semeuse motif, an iconic figure in 20th-century French philately.

The stamps are carefully aligned and held on the sheet, allowing observation of the regular perforation on the exposed sides. The designs are crisp, depicting the Semeuse character sowing seeds, a recurring symbol of the French Republic. The colors are well-preserved, with clear hues and little visible alteration on the exposed surfaces. The value denominations are perfectly legible on each specimen.

Some stamps show light traces of franking or cancellation, but most appear uncancelled on the visible side. The margins and sheet edges also show additional inscriptions, particularly numbers or printing marks, appreciated by philatelists for their typographic interest.

The graphic style of the Semeuse is typical of French issues from the early to mid-20th century, recognizable by its dynamic posture and simplified lines. This lot thus presents a beautiful diversity of shades and values, ideal for exploring the Semeuse theme or completing a study of regular French issues.

Also noteworthy is the presence of fragments of sheet strips with colored chevrons or printing marks, indicating the provenance of some stamps from the edge of the sheet.

Condition

These stamps are used and sold as-is. The visible set has a good overall appearance, with no apparent tears or major creases on the exposed surfaces. Some marks or traces of old hinges may be visible on the edges, consistent with their age and preservation.

Did you know? The "Semeuse" stamp series was created by Oscar Roty, a renowned engraver, and was issued in France starting in 1903. It marked the modernization of French philately and remained in use in various forms and colors for several decades, symbolizing the Republic and its universal values.

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Keywords: Semeuse stamps France, French postage stamp lot, blocks of 4 stamps, French philately, stamp France, Semeuse Roty, French Republic stamps, stamp face value, old French stamps, franking lot, red violet orange stamp, stamp sheet strip