France 1940 Pétain Definitives

France · 1940 · 1f

This definitive stamp features a portrait of Marshal Philippe Pétain, who became the head of state of Vichy France in 1940. The design is simple, focusing on the portrait against a solid background, with the denomination and country name clearly displayed. This series, known as the 'Pétain series', replaced previous issues and was widely used in the unoccupied zone of France during the war.

Issued shortly after the Fall of France and the establishment of the collaborationist Vichy regime, this stamp series represents a significant and controversial period in French history during World War II.