Stamps: Much loved cartoon characters

These stamps are delightful collectibles celebrating two of Europe’s most beloved comic book universes: Astérix and Tintin.

🛡️ Astérix Stamps (Image 1)
📌 General Info:
Theme: Astérix the Gaul

Issued by: La Poste (France)

Occasion: Journée du Timbre (Stamp Day)

Year: 1999

Surcharge: “3.00 + 0.60” means the stamp was sold for 3.60 francs, with 0.60 francs going to a postal-related charity or fund.

📬 Depiction:
Main character Astérix with his loyal dog Idéfix (Dogmatix).

One block includes Obélix and Getafix (the druid) in the background.

The style mirrors Albert Uderzo’s artwork, co-creator of the series with René Goscinny.

🎖️ Importance:
Commemorates the Journée du Timbre, a traditional philatelic event in France.

Highlights the cultural pride in French comic literature—Astérix is globally recognized and a symbol of French creativity.

This issue celebrated the 40th anniversary of Astérix, first published in 1959.

💰 Collector Value (as of 2024):
Individual stamps: €2 to €5 each, depending on condition and demand.

Mini-sheet with background illustration: €6 to €12.

Complete and mint condition sets: Fetch higher prices, especially in thematic (topical) collections focused on comics or French culture.

🕵️ Tintin Stamp (Image 2)
📌 General Info:
Theme: Tintin and friends

Issued by: La Poste (France)

Occasion: Fête du Timbre (Stamp Festival)

Year: 2000

Surcharge: 3.00 + 0.60 F (for similar charitable purposes)

📬 Depiction:
Central stamp features Tintin and Snowy (Milou) running.

Border illustrations show iconic characters:

Captain Haddock (top left),

Professor Calculus (bottom left),

Thomson & Thompson (bottom right),

A waiter slipping (classic comic mischief).

🎖️ Importance:
Tintin is the most internationally successful Belgian comic character, created by Hergé in 1929.

The stamp celebrates Tintin’s popularity at the turn of the millennium.

The sheet reflects the timeless appeal and broad cast of characters from The Adventures of Tintin.

💰 Collector Value (as of 2024):
Single stamp alone: ~€3–€6

Full illustrated sheet: €8 to €15 (depending on condition and presentation)

Collectors of Tintin memorabilia (a very active community) are particularly drawn to mint and well-preserved philatelic issues like this.

🎂 Bonus: Anniversaire Stamp
Issued by La Poste as a birthday-themed children’s stamp, likely from the early 2000s.

Depicts a cartoon character (Noddy, from Enid Blyton books, for those who remember) holding a cake with the word “Anniversaire” (Birthday). Noddy, recognizable with his blue hat and jingle bell, is cheerfully holding a birthday cake.

“ANNIVERSAIRE” is written in colorful, playful lettering, emphasizing the stamp’s use for birthday greetings.

Not high in philatelic value, but fun for thematic collectors.