France 15c Mouchon Type with FM Overprint

France · 1902 · 15c

This stamp depicts an allegorical head of France, known as the Mouchon type, with 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE' and 'POSTES' inscriptions. It bears an 'FM' (Franchise Militaire) overprint, indicating its use for military mail.

The 'FM' overprint signifies its use for military mail, allowing soldiers to send letters free of charge during a period when such services were crucial for communication. The Mouchon type was a standard definitive series in France at the turn of the 20th century.