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1961 Basel Switzerland Three Countries Corner Cafe Rhine River 3 Swiss Stamps US

$21.99
In stock · No. BIGGIE RUN 81

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RARE BASEL SWITZERLAND POSTCARD - THREE COUNTRIES CORNER (DREILÄNDER-ECKE)

Discover a piece of European history with this authentic 1961 Swiss postcard showing the iconic Three Countries Corner in Basel. This vibrant chrome postcard captures the exact point where Switzerland France and Germany meet along the Rhine River.

The striking modernist monument rising from the water creates a breathtaking focal point against the backdrop of a bustling riverside café. Patrons enjoy refreshments at bright red tables while boats navigate the blue waters beyond.



DESCRIPTION

This vintage chrome postcard showcases a picturesque waterfront café scene at the famous Dreiländer-Ecke (Three Countries Corner) in Basel. The prominent sail-like monument that marks this important geographical tripoint dominates the foreground.

Industrial and residential buildings line the opposite shore creating a perfect snapshot of post-war European prosperity. The vibrant blue sky with scattered clouds completes this idyllic scene of a bygone era.

Published by renowned postcard maker Krüger (card #949/16) this high-quality photochrome captures the essence of early 1960s continental Europe. The multilingual caption on reverse confirms this special location where three nations converge.



HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The Three Countries Corner (Dreiländer-Ecke) is a geographical landmark of tremendous historical importance. This exact spot marks the precise tripoint where the borders of Switzerland France and Germany meet along the Rhine River.

This postcard captures a moment in October 1961 - during the height of the Cold War - when this peaceful convergence of three Western European nations stood in stark contrast to the divisions elsewhere in Europe. The modernist monument visible in the image represents post-war cooperation and the rebuilding of Europe.



AUTHENTICALLY USED IN 1961

What makes this postcard truly special is that it was actually mailed on October 10 1961 from Basel to Pennsylvania USA. The senders identified only as 'R. + Julie ' share their travels through Switzerland before heading to Paris.

The reverse features three beautiful Swiss stamps totaling 55 centimes including a distinctive Pro Juventute charity stamp. A blue 'PAR AVION' airmail label ensures its swift journey across the Atlantic.

The handwritten message reads: '10/10/61 Dear Mr. + Mrs. Schelling We are here in beautiful Basel at the corner where Switzerland France + Germany meet. Yesterday we were in Luzern + today 'on the town' here in Basel. We leave for Paris tomorrow + expect to be home by Nov. 10th. R. + Julie.'



CONDITION

This 60+ year old postcard remains in good used condition showing its authentic journey through the postal system. The front maintains vibrant colors with no significant damage or creasing.

The reverse shows light even yellowing consistent with its age. All three stamps remain firmly attached with partial cancellation marks visible.

Some minor edge wear is present as expected for a genuinely used postcard of this vintage. The handwriting remains clear and legible throughout.



AGE/ERA

This postcard dates precisely to October 10 1961 as confirmed by both the handwritten date and partial postmark. The card exemplifies early 1960s chrome postcard production with its vibrant photographic quality.

The scene captures the optimistic post-war era of European prosperity when tourism was expanding and modernist monuments were celebrating a new age of peace and cooperation. The clothing styles of café patrons and architectural elements all confirm this early 1960s dating.



RARITY

Vintage postcards are rapidly disappearing from the collector market. Once common these fragile paper treasures are increasingly difficult to find - especially with complete stamps and clear postmarks intact.

This specific view of the Three Countries Corner with its distinctive monument is moderately scarce in the marketplace. Finding one actually mailed during this exact time period with multiple Swiss stamps is even more unusual.

Unlike mass-produced modern reproductions this is an authentic piece of postal history that traveled across continents over 60 years ago. When it's gone finding another comparable example may prove quite challenging.



COLLECTOR'S NOTE

Owning this postcard means possessing a tangible connection to both a significant geographical landmark and a specific moment in time. The joy of holding authentic historical ephemera creates a direct link to the past that digital images simply cannot replicate.

This card would make an exceptional addition to collections focused on European topographical views Swiss postal history border landmarks or mid-century travel memorabilia. The presence of multiple Swiss stamps including the Pro Juventute charity issue adds significant philatelic interest.

Buy multiple postcards and pay only ONE low shipping cost! Browse our store for more unique vintage postcards to add to your collection while saving on shipping.



DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY

This authentic piece of Swiss postal history won't be available for long. Once this specific card is sold this exact moment in time - captured in both image and handwritten message - may never be available again.

Add this scarce Basel Three Countries Corner postcard to your collection today before it disappears forever into another collector's album. Secure this piece of European border history now!

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 _gsrx_vers_1715 (GS 9.9.2 (1715))

Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.

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