French Guinea Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Guinea Stamps
French Guiana, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is an overseas department and region of France. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the French colonial administration, with stamps initially issued under the general issues of French Colonies before transitioning to definitive issues specific to the territory. The primary language appearing on the stamps is French, reflecting its status as an integral part of the French Republic. As a department of France, its postal system is fully integrated into La Poste, and it uses the Euro currency.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- West Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1892 – 1944
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- XOF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Guinea stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Guinea Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1892-1900s)
Overprinted stamps of French Colonies, featuring allegorical designs representing navigation and commerce, with 'GUINEE FRANCAISE' overprint.
Colonial Type 'Groupe' (1906-1930s)
Definitive series common to many French colonies, depicting various local scenes, portraits, or allegories, specifically inscribed 'GUINEE FRANCAISE'.
Exposition Coloniale Internationale, Paris (1931)
Commemorative issues for the Paris Colonial Exhibition, often featuring a common design for French colonies with specific country inscription.
French Guinea Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Higher values are found in complete sets, specific printings, or stamps with rare cancellations or errors. Early overprints on French Colonies stamps can also command higher prices.
How to Identify French Guinea Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Guinea stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'GUINEE FRANCAISE' or 'GUINEE' on the stamp.
- 2 Early issues are often French Colonies stamps with a 'GUINEE FRANCAISE' overprint.
- 3 Note the currency, which would typically be in Francs (centimes and francs) during its colonial period.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Guinea stamps?
French Guinea stamps are postage stamps issued for the French colonial territory of French Guinea, located in West Africa, between 1892 and 1944. They reflect the administrative and postal history of the region under French rule.
Are French Guinea stamps valuable?
The value of French Guinea stamps varies. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, rare stamps, complete sets, specific printings, or stamps with errors or rare cancellations can be quite valuable, potentially fetching €50 to over €500. Condition plays a significant role in their market value.
How can I identify French Guinea stamps?
You can identify French Guinea stamps by looking for the inscription 'GUINEE FRANCAISE' or 'GUINEE'. Early issues are often French Colonies stamps with this specific overprint. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app which can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list French Guinea stamps?
French Guinea stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons catalogs, typically under 'French Guinea' or within sections dedicated to French Colonies or French West Africa.
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