When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique French Postal History & Ephemera Lot – 1877 Insurance Letter & WWII Postcard
Interesting lot of 2 original French historical paper collectibles, dating from the late 19th century and World War II era.
1. Antique French Insurance Letter – 1877
Original correspondence from Caisse Paternelle, a French life insurance company based in Paris.
* Dated December 24, 1877.
* Original printed document discussing life insurance policies, financial obligations, and the distribution of funds.
* Features the company’s original letterhead and printed signatures.
* Includes handwritten annotations and official markings.
* Comes with its original mailed postal wrapper featuring a blue French postage stamp, Paris postmarks, and handwritten address.
* The letter unfolds to reveal the complete historical document.
2. WWII-Era French Family Correspondence Postcard – 1940s
Original unused French postal card designed for family communications during World War II.
* Printed with “France – Prix de Vente 0,90 – Carte Postale.”
* Features a preprinted message form for communicating family news.
* Includes options relating to health, injuries, prisoners, missing persons, and requests for supplies or money.
* Unused, with no handwritten message or postal cancellation.
* An interesting example of wartime communication restrictions.
Condition
Both items are in antique/vintage condition, showing signs of age, including discoloration, folding creases, minor stains, and general handling wear.
The 1877 letter has original folds consistent with historical mailing and storage.
The WWII postcard shows age-related discoloration and minor corner and edge wear.
Please carefully review all photographs, as they are part of the description.
Additional Information
* Quantity: 2 historical paper collectibles (the 1877 letter includes its original postal wrapper).
* Country: France.
* Dates: 1877 and approximately 1940s.
* Category: Antique Ephemera / Postal History / Historical Documents.
* Condition: Pre-owned, antique/vintage.
* Sold together as one lot.
A fascinating collection spanning two important periods of French history, ideal for collectors of antique correspondence, postal history, historical documents, and World War II memorabilia.
