Honouring Those Who Endured
In 1917, as World War I continued to devastate Europe, France issued a poignant set of stamps to support the War Orphans Fund. These stamps, now highly prized by philatelists, reflect the resilience, sacrifice, and hope of a nation enduring one of its darkest periods. Each design tells a story of war, loss, and the efforts to care for those left behind. Among them, the highest denomination—the 5f + 5f stamp—stands out as a stunning tribute to both courage and the enduring human spirit.
A Closer Look at the Stamps
This eight-stamp series combines artistic symbolism with practical fundraising, with each design capturing themes of war, sacrifice, and the nation’s determination to rebuild.
- 2c + 1c – War Widow
- The Design: A grieving widow stands solemnly, her child clinging to her side, symbolizing the loss and hardship endured by families of fallen soldiers.
- Message: Highlights the personal cost of war and the urgent need to support widows and their children.
- 5c + 5c – Orphans
- The Design: A group of orphans gathers, their vulnerable figures representing the innocent lives forever altered by war.
- Message: A call to action to provide care and protection for the war’s youngest victims.
- 15c + 5c – Woman Replaces Man
- The Design: A woman steps into a man’s role, working on the farm while holding an infant, illustrating the changing dynamics of society as women took on new responsibilities.
- Message: A tribute to women’s resilience and adaptability during wartime.
- 35c + 25c – Frontline Trench
- The Design: Soldiers in a frontline trench, enduring the harsh realities of battle.
- Message: Honors the bravery of those on the frontlines and reminds viewers of the sacrifices made to defend their homeland.
- 50c + 10c – Lion of Belfort
- The Design: The Lion of Belfort, a symbol of resistance and courage, guards the city against enemies.
- Message: Emphasizes the strength and determination of France to withstand and overcome adversities.
- 1f + 1f – Spirit of War
- The Design: A symbolic figure of war standing triumphantly, holding a torch of hope amidst destruction.
- Message: A powerful allegory of perseverance and the undying human spirit in times of darkness.
Historical Context
By 1917, World War I had left a devastating impact on France. Families were shattered, entire towns destroyed, and countless children orphaned. To address this immense tragedy, the French government issued these semi-postal stamps, with a portion of their sales going directly to the War Orphans Fund.
The stamps were designed by renowned French artists, including Surand, Jarraud, and Dumoulin, with engravings by masters such as L. Ruffe. This combination of poignant imagery and practical fundraising made the set a functional tool and a work of art.
Philatelic and Cultural Significance
This series is more than just a collection of stamps; it’s a historical artifact that reflects the humanity and compassion of a nation during a time of war. The inclusion of the 5f + 5f stamp, with its powerful imagery, encapsulates the resolve of the French people to protect their heritage and care for their most vulnerable.
Technical Details
- Release Date: August 1917
- Printing Technique: Engraved
- Perforations: 14×13½
- Set Composition: Eight stamps, each with a surcharge for the War Orphans Fund.
Denominations and Colors:
- 2c + 1c: Brown-lake
- 5c + 5c: Green
- 15c + 5c: Grey-green
- 25c + 15c: Pale blue
- 35c + 25c: Slate and olive
- 50c + 10c: Brown
- 1f + 1f: Carmine
- 5f + 5f: Blue and slate
Why This Set Matters Today
The 1917 War Orphans Fund stamps are a reminder of the cost of war and the importance of coming together to support those left behind. They remain a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the role of philately in recording and preserving history.
Have You Seen These Stamps?
Do you own this historic set or have memories of similar wartime stamps? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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