French Post Port Said Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Post Port Said Stamps
French Post Port Said operated as a distinct postal entity in North Africa, specifically within Egypt, under the administration of the French postal service. This service was established to cater to the significant French expatriate and commercial community centered around the Suez Canal. Stamps issued here typically bore French inscriptions, often alongside Arabic, reflecting the colonial and international context of the region. The postal administration ceased operations following the Suez Crisis and the subsequent restructuring of international postal arrangements in the mid-20th century.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1899 – 1927
- Languages:
- French, Arabic
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Post Port Said stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Post Port Said Stamp Series
Suez Canal Company Issue (1899)
Stamps overprinted 'PORT-SAID' on French general issues, often featuring the 'SUEZ' overprint as well, reflecting the Suez Canal Company's role.
Merson Type Overprints (1900-1922)
French Merson type stamps overprinted 'PORT-SAID' and sometimes with new values in Egyptian currency.
Sower Type Overprints (1903-1922)
French Sower type stamps overprinted 'PORT-SAID' and often surcharged with new values in Egyptian currency.
French Post Port Said Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific French base stamp, the overprint variety, condition, and whether it's on cover. Early issues and errors are particularly sought after.
How to Identify French Post Port Said Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Post Port Said stamps:
- 1 Look for 'PORT-SAID' overprints, usually in black, on standard French postage stamps.
- 2 Many issues also feature additional overprints indicating currency changes (e.g., 'Piastre', 'Millièmes') or other specific postal functions.
- 3 Examine the underlying French stamp design (e.g., Ceres, Sage, Merson, Sower types) to help date and identify the base issue.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Post Port Said stamps?
French Post Port Said stamps are French postage stamps that were overprinted 'PORT-SAID' and sometimes surcharged with local currency values for use by the French postal administration in Port Said, Egypt, from 1899 to 1927. They served the French community and commercial interests around the Suez Canal.
Are French Post Port Said stamps valuable?
The value of French Post Port Said stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for €5-€50, while rare varieties, errors, or stamps on original covers can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Factors like the base stamp, overprint type, condition, and rarity significantly influence their market price.
How can I identify French Post Port Said stamps?
To identify French Post Port Said stamps, look for the distinct 'PORT-SAID' overprint on French stamps. Pay attention to any additional surcharges or overprints indicating currency. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match the design and overprint to catalog entries, providing details on the specific issue and its characteristics.
Which catalogs list French Post Port Said stamps?
French Post Port Said stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (usually within 'French Offices Abroad' or 'Egypt'), Michel (under 'Französische Post in Ägypten'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'French Post Offices in Egypt'). Specialized French colonial catalogs also provide detailed listings.
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