Description: This issue showcases the Colotis zoe butterfly, a member of the Pieridae family found exclusively in Madagascar. The central engraving depicts the insect with creamy yellow-white wings that transition dramatically into deep crimson-violet tips on the forewings. It rests against a slate-blue background intricately etched with the thorny, succulent branches of Madagascar's unique spiny forest vegetation, likely a species of Euphorbia or Didiereaceae. The design is framed by the value "0F30" in the top left and the scientific name "COLOTIS ZOE" in the top right. The bottom of the stamp bears the country name "REPUBLIQUE MALGACHE" along with the national motto "FAHAFAHANA - TANINDRAZANA - FANDROSOANA" (Liberty, Fatherland, Progress), while the vertical "POSTES" text anchors the right side.
Circa: 1960
Condition: Unused - hinged
Notes:
Unlike many widespread African butterflies, Colotis zoe is endemic to Madagascar. It inhabits the island's dry deciduous forests and spiny thickets, which explains the choice of the thorny vegetation in the stamp's background design. The species is often admired for the male's vibrant wing coloration, which is effectively captured here using a recess-printing technique that gives the wings a textured, almost velvety appearance.
The stamp was designed and engraved by René Cottet, a prolific French artist known for his work on stamps for French territories. His signature appears in the bottom left corner. This stamp belongs to the same "Butterflies and Country Products" series as the Salamis duprei issue, representing the final philatelic chapter of the autonomous Malagasy Republic before it celebrated full independence just a month later in June 1960.