Nature Protection Stamps Appraisal

1976 Andorra (French Administration) Protection de la Nature Butterfly Stamps

This item is a partial set of postage stamps from the 1976 'Protection de la Nature' series issued by the French Administration of Andorra. The lot features two distinct vertical format stamps with serrated edges typical of late 20th-century philatelic production. The first stamp, valued at 1.40 francs, depicts 'Le Morio' (Mourning Cloak butterfly) on a light tan background, characterized by dark brown wings with a bright yellow border and blue spots. The second stamp, valued at 0.80 francs, depicts 'L'Apollon' (Apollo butterfly) on a striking black background, showing white wings with distinctive red and black ocelli. Both stamps include the text 'ANDORRE - ANDORRA' at the top, 'PROTECTION DE LA NATURE 1976' on the left margin, and the artist's name 'H. HEINZEL' in small print at the bottom left. The printing quality is high, demonstrating sharp color registration and clean typography. The condition appears to be Mint Never Hinged (MNH) or Lightly Hinged, with crisp perforations and no visible foxing, staining, or creases, suggesting they have been well-preserved in a protective sleeve or album. These stamps are part of a thematic collection focusing on European fauna and environmental conservation.