France Ceres Head, Imperforate

Name: France Ceres Head, Imperforate
Brand: France

France · 1849 · 20c

This stamp features the head of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, symbolizing the fertility and prosperity of the French Republic. Designed by Jacques-Jean Barre, the classic profile is framed by grapes and wheat, representing France's agricultural wealth. This was the first postage stamp issued by France, marking a significant moment in its postal history.

Issued during the Second Republic of France, this stamp replaced monarchical symbols with republican allegory following the 1848 Revolution. It represents a shift towards modernizing the postal system, inspired by the British Penny Black.

Printing Method

Typography

Themes

allegory ceres goddess mythology heads-of-state

Catalog Numbers

sg3

scott3

michel3

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$150

Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$100

Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$75

Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$40

Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$15

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