The 1957 Tourist Publicity Series celebrates France’s stunning landmarks, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty. These exquisite stamps, issued to promote tourism, act as miniature ambassadors, showcasing the history and charm of both mainland France and its overseas territories.
Stamp Details
Date of Issue: 19 October 1957
Purpose: Tourism promotion
Perforation: Perf 13
- 8f, Brown and Green (Guadeloupe, Sens River): £0.25 unused / £0.20 used
- 10f, Chocolate and Bistre-Brown (Palais de l’Élysée, Paris): £0.80 unused / £0.70 used
- 15f, Sepia, Green, and Blue (Château de Foix): £0.70 unused / £0.60 used
- 18f, Chocolate and Indigo (Beynac-Cazenac): £0.45 unused / £0.40 used
- 25f, Chocolate and Violet-Grey (Château de Valençay): £1.10 unused / £0.90 used
- 30f, Black-Green (Palais de l’Élysée, Paris): £4.25 unused / £2.45 used
- 35f, Cerise and Carmine-Lake (Rouen Cathedral): £5.50 unused / £2.75 used
- 50f, Sepia and Grey-Green (Saint-Rémy, Les Antiques): £1.10 unused / £1.00 used
- 65f, Deep Bright Blue and Indigo (Evian-les-Bains): £6.50 unused / £6.25 used
- 85f, Brown-Purple (Evian-les-Bains): £6.50 unused / £6.25 used
- 100f, Violet (Guadeloupe, Sens River): £50.00 unused / £30.00 used
Key Designs and Themes
- Guadeloupe, Sens River (8f and 100f)
The 8f Brown and Green and 100f Violet depict the lush Sens River, surrounded by tropical vegetation. These designs celebrate the natural beauty and serenity of Guadeloupe, a jewel among France’s overseas territories. - Palais de l’Élysée, Paris (10f and 30f)
Both the 10f Chocolate and Bistre-Brown and 30f Black-Green showcase the Palais de l’Élysée, the official residence of the French president. This landmark represents French political power and historical elegance, standing as an emblem of Parisian prestige. - Château de Foix (15f)
The 15f Sepia, Green, and Blue portrays the Château de Foix, a medieval fortress that commands attention from its rocky perch in the Pyrenees. This stamp captures the grandeur of feudal France. - Beynac-Cazenac (18f)
The 18f Chocolate and Indigo features the picturesque Dordogne village of Beynac-Cazenac, with its castle majestically overlooking the river. The stamp captures the idyllic charm of rural France and its deep history. - Château de Valençay (25f)
The 25f Chocolate and Violet-Grey highlights the Château de Valençay, a Renaissance masterpiece that once housed French nobility. Nestled in the Loire Valley, it remains a symbol of architectural splendor. - Rouen Cathedral (35f)
The 35f Cerise and Carmine-Lake depicts the iconic Rouen Cathedral, a Gothic wonder immortalized in Claude Monet’s art. The intricate façade and soaring spires make this one of France’s most celebrated churches. - Saint-Rémy, Les Antiques (50f)
The 50f Sepia and Grey-Green highlights the Roman ruins of Saint-Rémy, including a triumphal arch and mausoleum. These ancient structures are a testament to France’s Roman heritage and its commitment to preserving its history. - Evian-les-Bains (65f and 85f)
The 65f Deep Bright Blue and Indigo and 85f Brown-Purple depict lakeside views of Evian-les-Bains, a spa town nestled in the Alps. These stamps celebrate the natural beauty and tranquility of this renowned destination.
Historical and Philatelic Significance
The Tourist Publicity Series was issued at a time when tourism was emerging as an important cultural and economic activity in France. Each stamp serves as a visual invitation to explore France’s regions, from its bustling capital to its serene countryside and vibrant overseas territories.
Why Collect These Stamps?
- Artistic Excellence: The series features detailed engravings and rich colors that bring France’s landmarks to life.
- Cultural Representation: These stamps highlight France’s diverse history, architecture, and landscapes.
- Philatelic Appeal: The set is accessible for beginners while including rare high-value issues like the 100f Guadeloupe for advanced collectors.
Your Turn to Share
Have you visited any of these landmarks, or do you own any of these stamps? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to Stamp Stories for more journeys into the world of philately.
Let’s continue exploring France, one stamp at a time!