French Polynesia – Scott # 217

Description

French Polynesia Scott #217, issued in 1956, is a Mint Never Hinged (MNH) definitive illustrating traditional lagoon fishing in French Polynesia.

The stamp depicts a fisherman paddling a pirogue across calm lagoon waters, rendered in finely engraved line work with contrasting blue and green tones. Palm-lined shores and shallow water details emphasize daily life, subsistence fishing, and the maritime environment central to Polynesian culture. The denomination is 10 francs, and the stamp bears the inscriptions POLYNÉSIE FRANÇAISE – POSTES with the RF monogram.

This example is Mint Never Hinged, retaining full original gum and a clean, fresh appearance. A strong single for collectors of Pacific Islands, maritime themes, traditional livelihoods, or French overseas territories.