French Committee of National Liberation Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) Stamps
The French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) represented the Free French forces operating primarily from North Africa during World War II. This entity, based in Algiers, served as the provisional government of France and issued stamps to maintain postal services across territories loyal to the Allies. Stamps from this period typically bear French inscriptions and often feature symbols of the Free French cause, reflecting a critical transitional phase between the fall of France and the establishment of the Fourth Republic. The postal issues document the administrative continuity maintained by the resistance government outside of occupied metropolitan France.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1943 – 1944
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) Stamp Series
Marianne de Londres Overprints (1943)
Stamps of French colonies overprinted 'RF' (République Française) or 'France Libre' for use by the Free French forces.
Algiers Issues (1943-1944)
Definitive and commemorative stamps issued directly by the CFLN in Algiers, often featuring symbols of liberation or French historical figures.
Provisional Issues (1943-1944)
Various provisional issues and surcharges used in territories under CFLN control, reflecting the wartime conditions and administrative changes.
French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common issues are relatively inexpensive. Rarer varieties include specific overprint errors, scarce cancellations, and certain high-value definitives or commemoratives, especially in mint condition or on cover. Expertization is recommended for higher-value items.
How to Identify French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'RF' (République Française) or 'France Libre' overprints on stamps originally issued for French colonies.
- 2 Examine inscriptions for 'ALGER' or 'COMITE FRANCAIS DE LA LIBERATION NATIONALE'.
- 3 Note the period of issue (1943-1944) and the French language used for all inscriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Committee of National Liberation stamps?
French Committee of National Liberation (CFLN) stamps were postal issues produced by the provisional government of France, based in Algiers, during World War II (1943-1944). These stamps served territories loyal to the Free French forces and represented the administrative continuity of France outside of occupied metropolitan France.
Are French Committee of National Liberation stamps valuable?
The value of French Committee of National Liberation stamps varies. Many common issues are affordable, ranging from $1 to $10. However, rare varieties, such as specific overprint errors, scarce cancellations, or certain high-value definitives, can fetch prices from $50 to over $500, especially in pristine condition. Their historical significance also adds to their appeal for collectors.
How can I identify French Committee of National Liberation stamps?
You can identify French Committee of National Liberation stamps by looking for 'RF' or 'France Libre' overprints on colonial French stamps, or inscriptions like 'ALGER' or 'COMITE FRANCAIS DE LA LIBERATION NATIONALE' on stamps issued directly by the CFLN. The period of issue is strictly 1943-1944, and they are always in French. For quick and accurate identification, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize these historical issues.
Which catalogs list French Committee of National Liberation stamps?
French Committee of National Liberation stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values, making them essential resources for collectors.
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