Andorra – French Post year 1965 10c Block stamps

Andorra – French Post year 1965 10c Block stamps

Andorra, a small principality located in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, has a unique postal system. Due to historical agreements, both France and Spain operate postal services within Andorra, each issuing its own postage stamps valid within the principality.

French Andorra stamps, or “Andorre – Postes Françaises” stamps, have been issued since 1931. These are the key characteristics:

1. The stamps bear the inscription “Andorre” or “Vallées d’Andorre” and often include the words “Postes Françaises”.
2. They are denominated in French currency (previously francs, now euros).
3. The designs often feature local landscapes, landmarks, coat of arms, or cultural motifs related to Andorra.
4. French Andorra stamps are valid for postage within Andorra and on mail from Andorra to France and French territories.
5. Historically, the stamps were printed by the French Government Printing Office. More recently, they have been printed by firms like Cartor and Philaposte.
6. New issues are decided by the OETP (Office d’émission de Timbres-Poste), a philatelic agency of the French government.

French Andorra stamps are sought after by collectors for their connection to a small, unique European nation. The limited print runs and specific usages make them an interesting area of specialization.

It’s worth noting that Spanish Andorra stamps also exist concurrently, with their own unique designs and characteristics, issued by the Spanish postal service for use on mail within Andorra and to Spain.