Proposed Anglo-French issue

In the early days of the Second World War there were many calls for a joint stamp issue with France.

Following the outbreak of the Second World War, and the resulting greater co-operation between Britain and France, there were many calls – often expressed through the Press – for a joint stamp issue, perhaps a stamp valid in both nations or a common design. The King approved the idea.

The Post Office felt that Edmund Dulac would be the ideal designer, born in France but now living in England. However, even before representatives of the two postal administrations had met to further the idea, the French had invited M. Henry Cheffer to prepare a design. The result was admired by both parties.

Bromide #190 by Harrison & Sons

Dulac was asked to re-draw the design for printing by photogravure: he was reluctant to amend another’s work, and did not admire the design. Nevertheless he agreed, and in so doing, made a few changes. The process of amendments and essays ensued, with both British and French agreeing the results. Likewise both the King and French President approved the final choice. It was hoped to use the design for a full range of values, with the first one or two released on 2 September 1940.