The first two stamps of France were issued on January 1, 1849 : the 20c black (for covers weighing up to 7,5 gr.) and the 1 franc vermilion for covers weighing between 15 gr. and 100 gr.
Why are multiples of the 1 franc vermilion so elusive ?
The rate of 2 francs was only applied for internal covers weighing between 100 gr. and 200 gr. (then 1 franc for each 100 gr. above) or weighing between 15 gr. and 100 gr. andsent registered or “Chargé” between 01.01.1849 and 30.06.1850 (the double-rate tariff was thus applied: a registered cover weighing between 15 gr. and 100 gr. was charged 2 francs).
Because of these very particular rates, very few multiples of the 1 franc vermilion are known.
The Yvert & Tellier catalogue only quotes used pairs and unused blocks of four.
LE TIMBRE CLASSIQUE will offer in its 36th Sale on November 17, 2020 a used pair of the 1 franc vermilion. ONLY 5 pairs of the 1 franc vermilion are recorded.

A true RARITY of French philately !

Gaël CARON
Membre de l’Académie Européenne de Philatélie