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Historical Significance & WWII Postal History
This is a museum-quality piece of World War II ephemera documenting theLiberation of France. While the postcard itself is an older topographical view of theBasilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvièrein Lyon, it was mailed during the pivotal year of1944. The reverse features two highly collectibleLiberation overprint stamps: a green 1f Marianne stamp and a 50c+50c stamp overprinted with theCross of Lorraine (RF 1944). These stamps were used by the French Resistance and provisional government to invalidate Vichy-era postage.Social Narrative & Provenance
The card bears a clear circular postmark fromOrléans, dated during the late occupation or early liberation period of 1944. The handwritten message in dark ink is from "Anne-Marie," sending "Amities et bons baisers lyonnais" (Friendship and good kisses from Lyon) toPierre GorseinOrléans, Loiret. Published locally byEdition « La Cigogne »on Rue des 4-Chapeaux, this card represents a rare survival of personal correspondence during a time of extreme historical upheaval.Condition Report
The postcard is inexcellent vintage conditionfor a wartime document. The stamps are perfectly intact with clear, bold overprints and cancellations. The handwriting remains dark and legible. There is very minor age-toning and typical corner softening consistent with 80-year-old mail, but no significant creases, tears, or stains. A superb acquisition for specialists in French WWII history or philatelic overprints.Search Tags:Lyon France Postcard, 1944 Liberation Stamps, French Resistance Ephemera, Cross of Lorraine Stamp, Orléans Loiret History, WWII Postal History, Marianne Overprint, French WWII Memorabilia, Notre Dame de Fourviere, La Cigogne Lyon, 1944 Postmark.
