French Guiana Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Guiana Stamps
French Guiana is an overseas department and region of France situated on the northeastern coast of South America. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to France, operating under the French postal administration, La Poste, and utilizing the French franc and subsequently the euro. Stamps issued here typically feature the French language and often reflect both metropolitan French themes and local Guyanese culture and geography. As an integral part of the French Republic, its postal system has remained consistent with that of mainland France, avoiding the distinct colonial overprint issues seen in many other former French territories.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Americas
- Subregion:
- South America
- Issuing period:
- 1886 – 1947
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Guiana stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Guiana Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1892-1900s)
Definitive series common to many French colonies, featuring allegorical figures representing navigation and commerce, overprinted 'GUYANE FRANÇAISE'.
Type Blanc (1904-1906)
A series of definitive stamps featuring a portrait of Marianne, often overprinted with the colony's name.
Colonial Allegorical Series (1906-1920s)
Stamps depicting allegorical figures or scenes representing the colony, often with local flora or fauna.
French Guiana Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those with rare overprints or in pristine condition, can fetch significant prices. Later definitives are generally more affordable. Condition is a major factor.
How to Identify French Guiana Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Guiana stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'GUYANE FRANÇAISE' or 'POSTES GUYANE' (later issues).
- 2 Stamps often feature French colonial designs, allegorical figures, or local Guyanese themes.
- 3 The currency indicated will typically be in French Francs (centimes, francs).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Guiana stamps?
French Guiana stamps are postage stamps issued for use in the French overseas department and region of French Guiana, located on the northeastern coast of South America. These stamps were issued under French postal administration, reflecting both metropolitan French themes and local Guyanese culture.
Are French Guiana stamps valuable?
The value of French Guiana stamps varies widely. Common definitive issues are generally affordable, ranging from €0.50 to €10. However, early issues, especially those with specific overprints, errors, or in superb condition, can be quite valuable, reaching €50 to over €500. Rarity, condition, and historical significance are key determinants of value.
How can I identify French Guiana stamps?
To identify French Guiana stamps, look for the country name 'GUYANE FRANÇAISE' or 'POSTES GUYANE' printed on the stamp. They typically feature designs common to French colonies or specific Guyanese imagery. An easy way to identify them is by using a stamp identifier app, which can quickly recognize the stamp from a photo and provide details.
Which catalogs list French Guiana stamps?
French Guiana stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic publications. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Catalogue (especially for French Colonies), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others.
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