The Franco-Ethiopian Railway - 30 centime

This definitive regular issue from the Côte Française des Somalis belongs to the widely recognized "London Series" printed during World War II. The graphic layout depicts a steam locomotive framed by tropical palm trees, a traditional thatched dwelling, and a coastal dhow sailing the waters of the Gulf of Tadjoura. A prominent diagonal banner reads "DJIBOUTI", while the upper right corner features a circular insignia inscribed "FRANCE LIBRE" containing the Cross of Lorraine. Historically, the stamp celebrates the vital economic and military artery of the territory: the Franco-Ethiopian Railway. Linking the deep-water port of Djibouti to Addis Ababa, this critical infrastructure transport line served as a primary supply route for the interior of the Horn of Africa, with this specific wartime issue documenting the territory's integration into the Free French logistical network.