Gabon – Scott # C77

Description

This Gabon airmail commemorative stamp, Scott #C77, was issued in 1969 in connection with PHILEXAFRIQUE, the African philatelic exhibition held in Abidjan from February 14–23, 1969. The issue reflects Gabon’s participation in a major continental philatelic event promoting African postal history and cooperation.

The main vignette reproduces a historical painting depicting Father Charles Garnier (1775–1841), a Catholic missionary associated with the early Christian history of Gabon. The scene shows Garnier in clerical dress receiving or presenting documents within a mission setting, rendered in a classical, painterly style that emphasizes formality and historical gravity.

Below the vignette, the stamp incorporates a tab (label) bearing the PHILEXAFRIQUE emblem and the inscription U.A.M.P.T., along with the exhibition location and dates. The presence of the attached tab enhances the stamp’s collectible appeal, particularly for specialists in exhibition issues and African airmails.

Printed as an airmail issue with a high denomination, the stamp combines religious history, philately, and international exhibition themes into a single striking design. This example is offered mint never hinged (MNH), with full original gum and intact tab.

• Scott Catalog Number: C77

• Denomination: 100 francs

• Design: Father Charles Garnier – PHILEXAFRIQUE Abidjan 1969 (with tab)

• Condition: Mint Never Hinged (MNH)

• Country: Gabon