France postage stamps year 1900 – 2 francs

France postage stamps year 1900 – 2 francs

The Merson series of France, issued from 1900 to 1910, is one of the most iconic and artistically significant French postage stamp series of the early 20th century. Designed by Luc-Olivier Merson, a renowned French painter and illustrator, these stamps stand out for their intricate designs and high-quality engraving.

Key Features of the Merson Series

1. Design

• Artistic Influence: The design reflects the Art Nouveau style, popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Imagery:
  • Central motif: A seated allegorical figure representing Peace and Commerce, holding a staff and surrounded by symbols of agriculture, industry, and trade.
  • Background: A detailed classical-style architectural frame with ornate decorations.
• Typography:
  • Inscribed “RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE” at the top and the denomination at the bottom.

2. Denominations and Colors

• The Merson series included high-value stamps designed for specific postal needs, such as parcels, registered mail, and international correspondence.
• Common Denominations:
  • 40 centimes (brown and green).
  • 50 centimes (blue and pink).
  • 1 franc (brown and pink).
  • 2 francs (deep blue and buff).
  • 5 francs (deep green and buff).
• Each denomination was printed in a distinct color scheme, enhancing visual appeal and making the stamps easily identifiable.

3. Printing and Perforations

• Printing Method:
  • Engraved (intaglio), ensuring fine detail and durability.
• Perforations:
  • Standard perforation: 14 x 13½.
  • Variations in perforation gauges are rare but exist due to printing inconsistencies.

4. Paper and Watermarks

• Most stamps were printed on high-quality paper without watermarks.
• Later printings experimented with different types of paper, adding some minor collectible varieties.

Historical Context

• Transition to the Merson Series:
  • The Merson series replaced earlier definitive issues featuring simpler designs.
  • High-value stamps were needed for international parcels and large-scale mail, reflecting France’s expanding global trade network.
• Luc-Olivier Merson:
  • Merson was commissioned to create designs that combined utility and artistic sophistication. His work became a benchmark for philatelic design during this period.

Varieties and Collectibility

• Color Shades:
  • Subtle differences in ink shades occurred due to multiple print runs, leading to collectible variations.
• Reprints:
  • Some stamps were reissued in later years, distinguishable by slight design or color changes.
• Errors and Rarities:
  • Double impressions, misaligned perforations, and missing colors are rare and sought after.
• Cancellations:
  • Stamps with legible postmarks from major French cities, colonies, or special events add historical and monetary value.

Significance for Collectors

• Aesthetic Appeal: The intricate engraving and elegant design make this series a favorite among collectors of classical stamps.
• Historical Importance: Reflects the artistic and industrial ambitions of France at the turn of the century.
• Specialized Study: Includes variations that appeal to advanced philatelists, such as plate flaws, reissues, and usage on covers.

Tips for Collectors

1. Condition:
   • Look for stamps with intact perforations and minimal cancellation marks for higher value.
2. Identify Shades and Varieties:
   • Consult specialized French philatelic catalogs, such as Maury or Yvert & Tellier.
3. Covers and Usage:
   • Merson stamps on original covers, especially international mail, are highly prized.