Win the Stamp That Makes All Collectors Dream, the 'Un Franc Vermillon!

On the occasion of the Salon philatélique d'automne in Paris from November 7 to 9, the French Post will issue a sheet honoring the great philatelists who have marked history. Among them are notable names such as Ernest Vervelle, Jacques Gervais, André Biscara... as well as the founder of Maison Calves: Roger Calves.

Roger Calves was, from the 1970s until his death in 2009, the leading French expert for the authentication of collectible stamps. It was with him that French stamp dealers began to use the phrase “Signed Calves” in their advertisements when offering for sale stamps authenticated with his expert signature. His reputation extended far beyond national borders: it reached countries like Russia and Argentina, where the name Calves was often the first or only internationally recognized expert.

President of the French Chamber of Stamp Dealers and Experts (CNEP) from 1991 to 1998, Roger Calves also contributed to numerous philatelic works, such as the Tele-Philately program, the Yvert and Tellier and Cérès catalogs, etc.

The "Un Franc Vermillon" is undoubtedly the most famous of French stamps. Issued on January 1, 1849, it was withdrawn from circulation in December of the same year by the postal administration. They feared that its color, too similar to another stamp, would lead postal workers to make mistakes, such as selling one instead of the other.

Less than a year: that’s a very short lifespan for a stamp. This is what explains why the Un Franc Vermillon is so sought after: very few copies remain with good margins, vibrant color, and fresh paper. This is why the Yvert and Tellier catalog assigns it a high (and deserved) valuation: 22,000 euros for a used example.

The copy we are offering you the chance to win is very beautiful in appearance, with a lovely hue and some minor imperfections. It bears the Calves signature on the back and comes with its paper certificate.

The Salon philatélique d'automne is the major annual event in the world of philately: it will take place from November 7 to 9 in Paris, at the Espace Champerret, Hall A. The Calves house will share a stand with David Feldman, an international stamp auction house based in Switzerland and holder of numerous records.

Come meet us at the exhibition! We will be happy to receive you to authenticate your stamps; estimate your collection and, if you wish, consign it to one of the upcoming David Feldman auctions; and answer all your questions about expertise and philately in general.

Can't make it to the exhibition? Contact us now to get an estimate of your collection. In return, we will contact you within a week to provide a preliminary appraisal of the stamps you wish to sell, along with a referral to one or more professionals who can help you achieve the best price for your collection.