The period from 1890 to 1920 represents a rich and distinct era for the stamps of French Tunisia (formally the Regency of Tunis, a French Protectorate). A stamp lot from this period would generally contain the following key issues:
Key Stamp Issues (1890–1920)
The stamps issued during this period were primarily definitive (regular) issues for the French colonial postal system.
1. “Régence de Tunis” Coat of Arms Issues (1888-c. 1906)
- Period: The first stamps for the Protectorate were issued in 1888 and continued with various values, colors, and printing variations into the early 1900s.
- Design: These stamps feature the Beylical Coat of Arms of Tunisia with the inscription “RÉGENCE DE TUNIS” (Regency of Tunis).
- Significance: Stamps from 1890 onwards continue this key design, which is emblematic of the early French Protectorate period.
- Catalogue: Look for Scott numbers in the lower range (e.g., Scott #1-32 are 1888-1897 issues).
2. The First “Tunisie” Pictorial Series (1906–1920s)
- Period: Starting in 1906, a new, more distinctively Tunisian pictorial series was introduced.
- Design: These were the first stamps inscribed “TUNISIE” and featured local scenes and monuments, moving away from the purely heraldic design.
- Common Subjects: Mosque at Kairouan, Ruins of Carthage, Ruins of Dougga (Roman Capitol).
- Significance: This set marked a shift to designs showcasing Tunisian cultural and historical sites, a common colonial practice to affirm and romanticize the territory. These stamps saw continuous use and re-issues, making them common in lots from this entire period.
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