Indochina – Scott # 74

Description

Issued in the early 1920s, Indo-China Scott #74 is a surcharged definitive from the French colonial period, created to meet changing postal rate requirements in French Indochina. Rather than producing an entirely new design, existing stock was overprinted with a revised denomination, a common and practical solution used by colonial postal administrations.

The stamp is based on the classic Annamite woman definitive design, featuring a finely engraved portrait framed by ornamental scrollwork. The original 35 centimes denomination remains visible within the design, while a bold black surcharge reading “14 CENTS” is applied across the stamp. The inscription “INDO-CHINE” appears at the top, with “POSTES” below, maintaining the familiar layout of the long-running series. The contrasting surcharge stands out clearly against the underlying design, emphasizing its utilitarian purpose.

Printed in muted gray-green tones, this issue illustrates both the aesthetic continuity of French Indochina’s definitive stamps and the administrative realities of colonial postal operations. Surcharged issues such as this are of particular interest to collectors for their historical context and variety.

This example is offered mint never hinged (MNH), retaining full original gum with no hinge marks. The stamp shows fresh color, sharp surcharge lettering, and intact perforations.

Country: Indo-China
Year of Issue: Early 1920s
Scott Number: 74
Denomination: 14 centimes (surcharged on 35 centimes)
Condition: Mint never hinged (MNH)