Encased Stamp - Lingrand Mirror Factory, 25 Centimes

France · 1900 · 25 centimes

A 25 centimes French Sower stamp encased in a circular gilded metal holder, featuring advertising for the Lingrand Mirror Factory located at 16, Rue Saint Nicolas in Lille. The casing includes the denomination and company details.

Encased stamps like this served as emergency currency (monnaie de nécessité) in France during periods of coin shortages, particularly in the early 20th century. They often featured advertising for the businesses that issued them, combining a postal stamp with a protective casing.