France Military Post, Type Sage with Surcharge 'F.M.'

France · 1901 · 15c

This stamp is a definitive 'Type Sage' issue from France, originally printed in 1876, overprinted with the letters 'F.M.' (Franchise Militaire) in black. The design features allegorical figures representing Peace and Commerce holding hands over the globe, symbolizing France's global influence. The surcharge designated it for use by military personnel free of charge.

Issued in 1901, these stamps provided free postage for French soldiers, a practice known as military franchise. This was a crucial service for maintaining morale by allowing soldiers to communicate with their families, especially during periods of colonial expansion and military engagements abroad.