French Post Crete Stamps
French Post Crete refers to the postal administration established by France on the island of Crete, located in the Eastern Mediterranean, during the period of international occupation following the Cretan State's establishment. These post offices operated under the authority of the French postal service, often alongside other foreign administrations present on the island, issuing stamps denominated in French currency, typically the franc.
- Issued stamps
- 1902–1903
- Region
- Europe, Southern Europe
- Currency
- FRF
- Languages
- French
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- France
About French Post Crete stamps
The stamps primarily feature French language inscriptions, reflecting the administrative power, and their usage ceased following the island's eventual integration into the Kingdom of Greece. This period represents a distinct chapter in Cretan postal history marked by international administrative presence rather than unified national sovereignty.
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.
- CRÈTE
How to identify French Post Crete stamps
- Look for 'CRÈTE' overprint on French stamps, typically in black or red ink.
- Denominations will be in French currency (centimes, francs).
- Stamps will feature designs characteristic of contemporary French issues (e.g., Type Sage).
Popular series
-
Surcharged French Stamps
1902-1903
French stamps overprinted 'CRÈTE' and new denominations in French currency (centimes, francs) for use in the French post offices on Crete.
-
Type Sage Surcharges
1902
Specific issues featuring the 'Type Sage' design of France, surcharged for Cretan use, often with distinct overprint variations.
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
- €5–€50
- Scarce stamps
- €100–€1,000+
Values vary significantly based on the specific French stamp surcharged, the overprint variety, condition, and whether it's used on cover. Errors and scarce denominations command higher prices.
Catalogs. French Post Crete 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 Post Crete stamps
French Post Crete stamps are French postage stamps that were overprinted with 'CRÈTE' and new denominations in French currency for use in the French postal administration on the island of Crete between 1902 and 1903, during the period of international occupation.
The value of French Post Crete stamps varies. Common issues can be found for €5-€50, while rarer surcharges, specific varieties, errors, or stamps on cover can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Condition plays a significant role in their value.
To identify French Post Crete stamps, look for the distinctive 'CRÈTE' overprint on French stamps, usually accompanied by a new denomination in centimes or francs. The underlying stamp design will be French. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
French Post Crete stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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