100 Years of French Presence in Obock

Issued in 1962, this stamp commemorates the centenary of the founding of Obock, marking 100 years since the establishment of the first French settlement in the region in 1862. Located on the Gulf of Aden, Obock became an important strategic and commercial outpost and served as the foundation for the development of what later became the French Somali Coast (Côte Française des Somalis), today’s Republic of Djibouti.

By issuing this commemorative stamp, the French Somali Coast recognized a significant milestone in the territory’s history and development. The issue highlighted the historical importance of Obock as an early administrative and maritime center and emphasized its role in the growth of trade, transportation, and regional connections along one of the world's most important shipping routes.