French Somaliland Stamp 10c 1893 canceled, Protectorate, Djibouti landscape

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This postage stamp, visible in the photo, belongs to the series issued for the Protectorate of the Somali Coast, a former French colony. The indicated face value of 10 centimes is inscribed in the upper corners. The vignette shows a detailed urban or port landscape scene, typical of Djibouti region issues from the late 19th century. The stamp's borders are finely adorned with decorative motifs, with traditional attire figures and inscriptions in French and Arabic on the sides.

The dominant hue is light brown, with a central illustration in green. The typographic printing reveals a finesse characteristic of colonial stamps from that era. A round cancellation mark, clearly visible on the left side of the stamp, attests to its postal use. The date "1893" is also distinguishable printed in the lower cartouche, highlighting the antiquity of this specific issue.

The perforated margins are partially visible on the upper part and sides, while the base appears aligned with the album's background. The general appearance shows a slight patina and some signs of wear consistent with its age, notably discoloration in certain areas and a slight fading of colors.

The design highlights local architecture and the importance of the port of Djibouti in the late 19th century, with architectural and maritime details. The legible inscriptions are: "PROTECTORAT COTE DES SOMALIS", "10 c.", "DJIBOUTI 1893".

Condition

This stamp is used and features a clear cancellation. It shows signs of wear, including slight discoloration, handling marks, and a consistent patina. The visible edges appear regular. Sold as is, as seen in the photograph.

Did you know? The Protectorate of the Somali Coast was established in 1896, but the first stamps bearing its name date from 1894, succeeding those of Obock. These issues are sought after for the fineness of their engraving and the richness of their motifs depicting local life and Djibouti's infrastructure during the colonial era.

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Keywords: Somali Coast stamp, Djibouti stamp, French colonial stamp, cancelled, Protectorate, French Africa post, philately, 10 centimes, 19th century stamp, Djibouti postal, stamp French colonies, old Africa stamp, French Somaliland