This stamp from the Republic of Congo (Congo-Léopoldville) commemorates the nation’s independence from Belgium on 30 June 1960. The design, printed by Courvoisier S.A., shows a map of the country with major cities labeled — Léopoldville, Stanleyville, Coquilhatville, Luluabourg, Bukavu, and Élisabethville — marking the newly unified republic. The bold diagonal inscription “INDÉPENDANCE” celebrates national freedom.

This example bears an overprint of “7F” in black on a grey panel, replacing the original denomination (2F), a common post-independence surcharge due to rapid postal rate adjustments.

Collector’s Notes:
This issue is one of the first definitive stamps of independent Congo and holds historical significance for African decolonization collectors. Its clean cartographic design, symbolic typography, and overprint variety make it highly sought after.