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.
- Issued stamps
- 1886–1947
- Region
- Americas, South America
- Currency
- FRF
- Languages
- French
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- France
About French Guiana stamps
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.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- GUYANE FRANÇAISE
- POSTES GUYANE
How to identify French Guiana stamps
- Look for the inscription 'GUYANE FRANÇAISE' or 'POSTES GUYANE' (later issues).
- Stamps often feature French colonial designs, allegorical figures, or local Guyanese themes.
- The currency indicated will typically be in French Francs (centimes, francs).
Popular 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.
-
Local Scenery and Figures
1930s-1940s
Later definitive issues showcasing specific Guyanese landscapes, indigenous people, and local industries.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- €0.50–€10
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
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.
Catalogs. French Guiana stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about 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.
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.
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. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
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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