AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a vintage French postage stamp, prominently featuring a profile portrait of Louis Pasteur, a renowned French microbiologist and chemist. The stamp is rectangular in shape, primarily dark green in color with lighter green or white highlights used to delineate the portrait and text, indicating an intaglio or similar printing method that allows for fine detail and tonal variations. The top border of the stamp reads "REPVBLIQVE FRANÇAISE" (Republic of France), and along the right vertical border, the word "POSTES" (Posts) is printed. In the bottom left corner, the denomination "30 C" (30 Centimes) is clearly visible, while 'PASTEUR' is printed along the bottom edge, below his bust. The portrait of Pasteur depicts him with a distinguished beard and hair, facing left. The stamp exhibits visible serrated edges, typical of perforated postage stamps, though some perforations appear to be slightly torn or less defined, particularly on the left and right sides. There is a dark, possibly black, cancellation mark visible across the upper portion of the stamp, partially obscuring the 'REPVBLIQVE FRANÇAISE' text and Pasteur's forehead, indicating it has been used. The overall condition shows signs of age and use, with some slight discoloration or paper toning evident around the edges and within the paper itself. The print quality appears generally good, with crisp lines for the portrait and text, despite the cancellation. The style suggests it likely dates from the late 19th to early 20th century, a period when such commemorative stamps of famous figures were common in France.

I have examined the provided image of the French “Louis Pasteur, 30 Centimes” postage stamp. Based on this visual inspection, the stamp appears to be a genuine issue, likely the Yvert & Tellier #221, first issued in 1923. The design, including the portrait, text, and denomination, is consistent with known examples of this stamp. Given its cancelled status, it has been used for postal purposes. The condition, as observed from the image, is fair to good for a cancelled stamp of this age. There is clear evidence of a cancellation mark, which is expected for a used stamp. The perforations show some minor irregularities, with slight tearing or less definition on the sides, which is common. There appears to be some slight toning or discoloration, particularly at the edges, indicative of age and handling. The print quality remains generally crisp despite these factors. From a market perspective, this particular stamp (Y&T #221) is relatively common, especially in cancelled condition. While it commemorates a significant figure, Louis Pasteur, its widespread availability keeps its value modest. Demand for this specific used issue is consistent but not high-tier. Comparables for used examples typically range in the low single to double digits. Factors impacting value include the heaviness and placement of the cancellation (a light, clear cancel is preferred), the centering of the design, and the integrity of the perforations. My valuation of $5 - $10 reflects a fairly common, used example in average circulated condition. A clearer, lighter cancel, or pristine perforations, would push it towards the higher end of this range or slightly beyond. It is crucial to note that this appraisal is based solely on visual examination of the image. For full authentication and a definitive condition assessment, an in-person examination would be necessary to check for hidden imperfections, paper thinness, repairs, or any other alterations not discernible from a photograph. The gum condition (if unused), precise paper type, and watermark (though Y&T #221 is unwatermarked) also require physical inspection to confirm or rule out other varieties.