French Zone (Morocco) Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Zone (Morocco) Stamps
The French Zone, primarily referring to the French Protectorate in Morocco during the 20th century, was situated in North Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Its postal history is defined by its status as a French colonial dependency, operating under the French postal administration until independence. Stamps issued for this zone predominantly feature the French language and currency, often displaying the Sultan's effigy alongside French colonial insignia. The postal system underwent significant changes following the establishment of the international Tangier Zone and the eventual dissolution of the protectorate in the mid-1950s.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1945 – 1946
- Languages:
- French, Arabic
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Zone (Morocco) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Zone (Morocco) Stamp Series
Post-War Provisional Issues (1945-1946)
Stamps issued immediately after World War II, often overprinted or surcharged, reflecting the changing administrative and economic conditions.
Sultan Mohammed V Issues (1945-1946)
Definitive stamps featuring the effigy of Sultan Mohammed V, often alongside French colonial symbols, indicating the dual authority.
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French Zone (Morocco) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Rarer issues include specific overprints, errors, or high-denomination stamps, especially those in fine used condition or on cover. Early provisional issues can also command higher prices.
How to Identify French Zone (Morocco) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Zone (Morocco) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'MAROC' or 'PROTECTORAT FRANÇAIS' inscriptions, often with 'POSTES' and French currency values.
- 2 Many stamps feature the effigy of the Sultan of Morocco alongside French colonial designs.
- 3 Pay attention to overprints, especially those indicating provisional use or changes in postal rates during the 1945-1946 period.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Zone stamps?
French Zone stamps refer to postage stamps issued for the French Protectorate in Morocco, specifically during the brief period of 1945-1946 when distinct issues were sometimes made or existing stamps were overprinted to reflect post-war conditions, before full integration into the general French Protectorate issues.
Are French Zone stamps valuable?
The value of French Zone stamps varies. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, certain provisional issues, specific overprints, errors, or high-denomination stamps, especially in fine condition or on original covers, can be quite valuable, fetching €50 to over €500.
How can I identify French Zone stamps?
You can identify French Zone stamps by looking for inscriptions like 'MAROC' or 'PROTECTORAT FRANÇAIS' and French currency. Many feature the Sultan's effigy. Pay close attention to dates and any overprints, particularly for the 1945-1946 period. For quick identification, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps.
Which catalogs list French Zone stamps?
French Zone stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under Morocco, French Protectorate), Michel (under Marokko, Französische Zone), and Stanley Gibbons (under Morocco, French Protectorate). These catalogs provide detailed listings, images, and current market values.
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