uncommonpre-1900

France, 20 Centimes Black on White, Ceres Issue, Used in Algeria

Name: France, 20 Centimes Black on White, Ceres Issue, Used in Algeria
Brand: France (Used in Algeria)

France (Used in Algeria) · 1849 · 20c

This stamp is the first issue of France, featuring a profile of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, wearing a garland of wheat and grapes. The design, created by Jacques-Jean Barre, is a classic of early philately. This particular example is identifiable as used in Algeria by its distinctive lozenge-shaped postmark with a large numeral.

From 1849, French stamps were used in Algeria, which was then a French colony. Postmarks with large numerals (gros chiffres) were used to identify the town of origin, making these cancellations highly collectible.

Printing Method

Typography

Themes

ceres goddess mythology definitive classic-philately

Catalog Numbers

sg1

scott1

michel3

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$250

Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$175

Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$100

Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$60

Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$25

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.