This stamp was originally issued by French West Africa (Afrique Occidentale Française) and features the vibrant Gloriosa flower, designed by M. Roland and printed by Hélio-Vaugirard, Paris. After Guinea declared independence in 1958, existing colonial stocks were overprinted with “République de Guinée”, as seen here on a 10 Franc denomination. The overprint transformed colonial issues into provisional national stamps during the early postal transition period. Such overprints are historically significant, representing Guinea’s first steps as a sovereign postal authority. For collectors, this issue is a fascinating example of African decolonization expressed through philately.