French Post Alexandria Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Post Office in Alexandria Stamps
French Post Alexandria operated as a distinct postal entity within Egypt, situated in North Africa, under the administration of the French postal service. This service was established to facilitate communication for the significant French expatriate and commercial communities residing in the major port city of Alexandria. Stamps issued by this office typically bore French inscriptions, often alongside Egyptian currency denominations, reflecting the dual administrative and commercial presence. The postal history of this entity is intrinsically linked to the broader context of French overseas postal agencies operating under the authority of the French Ministry of Posts and Telegraphs until their eventual closure or integration following political shifts in the region.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1899 – 1927
- Languages:
- French, Arabic
- Currency:
- EGP
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Post Office in Alexandria stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Post Office in Alexandria Stamp Series
Surcharged French Stamps (1899-1902)
French stamps (Sower, Merson, etc.) overprinted 'ALEXANDRIE' and surcharged in Egyptian currency (piastres and milliemes).
Type Sage Issues (1902-1921)
French 'Type Sage' stamps overprinted 'ALEXANDRIE' and surcharged with values in Egyptian currency.
Peace and Commerce (Commerce et Paix) Issues (1921-1927)
French 'Peace and Commerce' definitive stamps overprinted 'ALEXANDRIE' and surcharged in Egyptian currency.
French Post Office in Alexandria Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps from French Post Alexandria can vary significantly in value. Common surcharged issues are relatively affordable, while errors, scarce denominations, or stamps on cover can command high prices. Condition, especially the clarity of the overprint and surcharge, is crucial.
How to Identify French Post Office in Alexandria Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Post Office in Alexandria stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'ALEXANDRIE' (sometimes in various fonts) on French definitive stamps.
- 2 Verify the surcharge in Egyptian currency (e.g., '1 Piastre', '10 Milliemes').
- 3 Examine the underlying French stamp design (e.g., Sower, Sage, Peace and Commerce types).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Post Alexandria stamps?
French Post Alexandria stamps are issues used by the French postal agency operating in Alexandria, Egypt, from 1899 to 1927. These stamps were typically French definitive stamps overprinted with 'ALEXANDRIE' and surcharged with denominations in Egyptian currency (piastres and milliemes) for local use.
Are French Post Alexandria stamps valuable?
The value of French Post Alexandria stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while scarcer denominations, specific overprint varieties, errors, or stamps on original covers can be quite valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of euros. Condition and rarity are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify French Post Alexandria stamps?
To identify French Post Alexandria stamps, look for the distinctive 'ALEXANDRIE' overprint on French stamps, usually accompanied by a surcharge in Egyptian currency. The underlying stamp design will be a standard French definitive issue of the period. For precise identification and to check for varieties, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized catalogs.
Which catalogs list French Post Alexandria stamps?
French Post Alexandria stamps are well-documented in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them listed in Scott (under French Offices in Egypt), Michel (under Französische Post in Ägypten), and Stanley Gibbons (under French Post Offices Abroad - Egypt).
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