France – Scott #s 325-26, used

Description

France Scott #s 325–326, issued in 1937, are used commemorative stamps honoring Jean Mermoz, one of France’s most celebrated early aviators and a key figure in the development of long-distance airmail routes.

Both stamps commemorate Mermoz’s role in advancing commercial aviation, particularly transatlantic and South American air routes with Aéropostale. The designs reflect two complementary perspectives:

• Scott #325 – 3 francs (violet)
  A heroic portrait of Mermoz in profile, framed by stylized wings, emphasizing courage, flight, and aviation idealism.

• Scott #326 – 60 centimes (blue-green)
  A more intimate scene showing Mermoz at the controls, highlighting technical skill, navigation, and the practical realities of early flight.

Executed in fine engraved line work, the stamps balance romantic symbolism with modern technological confidence, typical of late-1930s French aviation issues.

Both examples are postally used, showing visible cancellations with solid overall presentation. A strong paired set for collectors of aviation, airmail history, French interwar issues, or notable individuals in flight.