French Tangier Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About French Tangier Stamps
French Tangier was a unique administrative zone located in North Africa, specifically in the northernmost part of Morocco, which operated under an international statute for much of the 20th century. Although nominally under French and Spanish influence, its postal system was often administered separately or jointly, reflecting its internationalized status. Stamps issued for this zone typically featured French inscriptions, reflecting the primary administrative power, and often included denominations in French francs or centimes. The postal history of Tangier is marked by its transition through various international commissions and its eventual reintegration into independent Morocco in 1956, leading to significant changes in its philatelic output.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- North Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1918 – 1929
- Languages:
- French
- Currency:
- FRF
- Parent issuer:
- France
Stamp Catalogs
French Tangier stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular French Tangier Stamp Series
Mouchon Type Surcharges (1918-1921)
French Protectorate stamps overprinted 'TANGER' and new values in French currency, often featuring the Mouchon type design.
Peace and Commerce Type Surcharges (1921-1924)
French 'Peace and Commerce' series stamps overprinted 'TANGER' and new values, reflecting the ongoing administrative changes.
Sower Type Surcharges (1924-1929)
French 'Sower' series stamps overprinted 'TANGER' and new values, representing the later issues of French Tangier.
French Tangier Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific overprint, condition, and whether they are on cover. Early surcharges and errors can be quite valuable.
How to Identify French Tangier Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying French Tangier stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'TANGER' on French colonial or metropolitan stamps.
- 2 Denominations will typically be in French francs or centimes.
- 3 The underlying stamp design will often be recognizable French issues like the Mouchon, Peace and Commerce, or Sower types.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French Tangier stamps?
French Tangier stamps are postage stamps issued for the French postal administration within the International Zone of Tangier, Morocco, between 1918 and 1929. They typically consist of French Protectorate or metropolitan French stamps overprinted with 'TANGER' and new denominations.
Are French Tangier stamps valuable?
The value of French Tangier stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rarer overprints, errors, or stamps on cover can fetch hundreds of euros. Factors like condition, specific overprint, and rarity significantly impact their worth.
How can I identify French Tangier stamps?
You can identify French Tangier stamps by looking for the distinctive 'TANGER' overprint on French stamp designs. They will also feature denominations in French currency. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list French Tangier stamps?
French Tangier stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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