The Aleppo 1870 Fragment

A World-Class Artifact at the Intersection of Empires

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This artifact transcends traditional philatelic classification. It represents a singular convergence of Ottoman fiscal administration, French consular operations, and international postal systems in 1870 Aleppo—a moment frozen in time where empires intersected through commerce and communication.

The Path to RRRR Classification

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Ottoman fiscal paper with notary seal (Caliphate embossment)

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+ Blue clerical hand stamp indicating administrative reuse

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+ Repurposed as postal wrapper/envelope for mail transport

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+ HALÉP 81 hieroglyphic seal: French consular integration into international mail

Forensic & Historical Significance

Ottoman Caliphate Embossing

Type A fiscal seal with documented dimensional metrics and bead-count panel

HALÉP 81 Classification

Rare triple-box marking representing French consular postal operations in Aleppo

Multi-Layer Markings

Black "PD" (paid), tombstone mark, red rectangle overlay—each telling part of the journey

Blue Reuse Arc

~10-11mm radius arc indicating prior administrative function before postal reuse

Scientific Documentation

VIS/UV365/UV254 imaging, co-registration analysis, non-destructive workflow

Historical Context

Documents Ottoman-French relations during critical period of imperial interaction (1870)

Authentication & Publication Timeline

January 2023

Upcoming 2025

Initial publication in France & Colonies Philatelist journal with open call for identification assistance

Upcoming 2025

Full authenticated analysis published in FCPS journal with forensic documentation

90%

Authentication Complete

1/1

90%

Census: Unique Survivor

100 90%

100

CRI Discovery Score

Exhibition & Collaboration Opportunity

We invite museum curators, institutional collections, and cultural heritage organizations to explore exhibition and collaborative research opportunities. This artifact offers unique narrative potential—bridging Ottoman history, French colonial presence, philatelic heritage, and the evolution of international communications systems.

Open Census: We actively seek comparative examples, archival parallels, or disconfirming evidence from institutional collections worldwide. Your expertise and collection insights are invaluable to completing the historical record.

Email: CF0906@gmail.com

Phone: +1 215-816-4090

Documentation: aleppo1870.com