The 1927 Strasbourg Philatelic Exhibition stamps and miniature sheet are among the most coveted philatelic items from France, known for their beauty, rarity, and historical significance. Issued on June 4, 1927, these stamps were created exclusively for the Strasbourg Philatelic Exhibition, marking one of the earliest instances of an organized philatelic event in France.
The stamps, designed with the iconic Sower motif, represent a timeless connection to French culture and history. Let’s explore the history, design, and collectability of this issue, along with its significance to collectors today.
Historical Background of the Strasbourg Issue
The 1927 Strasbourg Philatelic Exhibition was held to celebrate philately’s growing importance as a cultural and historical discipline. The event brought together collectors, postal officials, and designers, creating an opportunity to highlight France’s rich philatelic history.
To commemorate the occasion, France issued a special miniature sheet featuring two perforated stamps:
- 5f. blue
- 10f. red
These stamps were exclusively sold at the exhibition, with an entrance fee of 5 francs. The unique feature of this miniature sheet is the central label inscribed “STRASBOURG 1927”, which adds to its aesthetic and historical appeal.
Design and Details
The stamps feature the celebrated Sower motif (La Semeuse), a design deeply ingrained in French philately and national identity.
- Artist: The Sower design was created by Oscar Roty, whose artwork became synonymous with French coins and stamps during the early 20th century.
- Engraver: The stamps were engraved by Eugène Mouchon, a renowned engraver known for his detailed work.
The miniature sheet measures 110×140 mm, with the stamps and the label perfectly centered. The perforation is 14×13½, providing a clean and precise look that appeals to collectors.
Catalogue Information and Valuation
According to the Stanley Gibbons catalogue, the issue includes the following:
- Individual Stamps:
- SG 454: 5f. blue – Valued at £350 mint/£350 used.
- SG 454a: 10f. red – Valued at £350 mint/£350 used.
- Miniature Sheet:
- SG MS454b: 5f.+10f. with central “STRASBOURG 1927” label – Valued at £1,500 mint/£1,600 used.
These values reflect the rarity and desirability of this issue. The miniature sheet, in particular, is highly prized due to its limited availability, as it was sold only at the exhibition.
Rarity and Collectability
The 1927 Strasbourg issue is a collector’s dream due to several factors:
- Limited Distribution:
The stamps and miniature sheet were only available at the Strasbourg Philatelic Exhibition, restricting their distribution to attendees. - Historical Significance:
This issue represents one of the earliest instances of a philatelic miniature sheet, making it a landmark in the history of philately. - Iconic Design:
The Sower motif holds a special place in French culture, symbolizing growth, renewal, and resilience. Its use in this commemorative issue adds to its appeal. - High Valuation:
With the miniature sheet valued at £1,500 mint and £1,600 used, it is one of the most valuable philatelic items from France, attracting serious collectors.
Tips for Collectors
- Authentication: Due to its rarity and value, ensure that any Strasbourg 1927 items you acquire are authenticated by a reputable philatelic expert.
- Condition Matters: The value of these stamps and miniature sheets heavily depends on their condition. Mint sheets with intact perforations and vibrant colors command the highest prices.
- Storage: Use archival-quality materials to protect these valuable items from light, humidity, and physical damage.
Legacy of the Strasbourg Issue
The 1927 Strasbourg issue stands as a testament to the enduring allure of philately. It symbolizes the early days of organized stamp collecting and the cultural significance of stamps as historical artifacts. For collectors, owning this issue is not just about possessing a rare item—it’s about connecting to a pivotal moment in philatelic history.
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