French Somali Coast Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Somali Coast Stamps
The French Somali Coast, located in the Horn of Africa, was a significant French colony whose postal history is intrinsically linked to the French colonial empire. Stamps issued during this period predominantly featured French inscriptions and denominations, reflecting its status as an overseas territory of France. The territory's postal system operated under the general framework of the French postal administration until its transition to the independent Republic of Djibouti in 1977. This period saw the issuance of definitive and commemorative stamps reflecting both French metropolitan designs and local themes.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- East Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1893 – 1967
- Languages:
- French, Somali, Afar
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Somali Coast stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Somali Coast Stamp Series
Navigation and Commerce (1893-1902)
Early definitive issues, often overprinted, featuring allegorical designs common to French colonies.
Pictorial Issues (1902-1940s)
Stamps depicting local scenes, flora, fauna, and portraits of indigenous people, reflecting colonial themes.
Postage Due Stamps (1902-1940s)
Specialized issues for collecting underpaid postage, often featuring 'Chiffre Taxe' inscriptions.
French Somali Coast Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Early issues, high denominations, errors, and specific overprints or cancellations can command significantly higher prices. Condition is crucial for value.
How to Identify French Somali Coast Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Somali Coast stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CÔTE FRANÇAISE DES SOMALIS' or 'SOMALIE FRANÇAISE' inscriptions.
- 2 Denominations are typically in French Francs (Centimes, Francs).
- 3 Many early issues are French colonial general issues overprinted for local use.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Somali Coast stamps?
French Somali Coast stamps are postage stamps issued by the French colonial administration for use in the territory located in the Horn of Africa, from 1893 until its transition to the French Territory of the Afars and the Issas in 1967. They reflect French colonial postal policies and local themes.
Are French Somali Coast stamps valuable?
The value of French Somali Coast stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally affordable, ranging from $0.50 to $10. However, rare stamps, particularly early issues, high denominations, varieties, or those with specific overprints and cancellations, can be quite valuable, fetching $50 to over $500. Rarity and condition are key determinants of value.
How can I identify French Somali Coast stamps?
You can identify French Somali Coast stamps by looking for inscriptions such as 'CÔTE FRANÇAISE DES SOMALIS' or 'SOMALIE FRANÇAISE'. Denominations will be in French Francs. Many early stamps are French colonial general issues overprinted for the territory. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and match your stamps.
Which catalogs list French Somali Coast stamps?
French Somali Coast stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 3, France & Colonies), the Michel catalogue (specifically for French Colonies), and the Stanley Gibbons catalogue (Part 7, France & Colonies).
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