France year 1870 stamp 40c Orange Used cut

France year 1870 stamp 40c Orange Used cut

In 1849, France issued its first postage stamp series known as the “Cérès” series, named after the Roman goddess of agriculture, Ceres. The Cérès series is one of the most iconic and widely collected stamp series in French philately.

The 1870 Cérès stamps were part of this series and featured the profile of Cérès, the goddess of agriculture, depicted in an oval frame. These stamps were engraved and printed in various denominations and colors to accommodate different postal rates and services.

The 1870 Cérès stamps were in use during a tumultuous period in French history, including the Franco-Prussian War, which led to the fall of the Second French Empire and the establishment of the French Third Republic. These stamps were used for postage during this transitional period, witnessing significant political and social changes in France.

The Cérès series is renowned for its elegant design and historical significance, making it a favorite among stamp collectors and enthusiasts of French philately. These stamps remain highly sought after by collectors due to their beauty, historical context, and importance in the development of French postal history.