France – Scott # B343

Description

Issued in 1960, France Scott B343 is a semi-postal charity stamp honoring Nicolas Boileau-Despréaux (1636–1711), one of the most influential literary critics and poets of classical France. Boileau was a central figure in shaping French literary standards during the reign of Louis XIV, advocating clarity, order, and reason in poetry and criticism.

The engraved design presents a thoughtful portrait of Boileau in the foreground, paired with a stately architectural view associated with his life and era. The restrained green palette and finely lined engraving reflect the dignity and intellectual seriousness traditionally associated with France’s literary semi-postals.

The stamp carries a denomination of 0,20 franc + 0,10 franc, with the surcharge allocated to charitable and cultural causes supported by La Poste during this period.

This example is offered mint never hinged, with full original gum, clean margins, sharp perforations, and fresh color.

• Country: France

• Year of Issue: 1960

• Scott Number: B343

• Denomination: 0.20f + 0.10f (semi-postal)

• Condition: Mint Never Hinged (MNH)