(2003) MiNr. 3677 ** - France - Heart of Torrente with four-leaf clover

Chanel No. 5 - French perfume icon on a 2004 stamp

In 2004, France issued a stamp (MiNr. 3774 I) that pays tribute to one of the world's most iconic perfumes - Chanel No. 5. First launched in 1921, this perfume has become a symbol of elegance, luxury and French culture. It was created by fashion designer Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel and perfumer Ernest Beaux.

The origins and significance of Chanel No. 5

Chanel No. 5 was the first perfume that was not based solely on a single floral essence, but combined several fragrances and included synthetic ingredients - mainly aldehydes. This approach was revolutionary at the time of its creation. Coco Chanel wanted to create "a perfume for a woman that smells like a woman" - not like rose or lavender, as was the norm until then.

Since the early 20th century, Chanel No. 5 has been an integral part of the world's perfumery. Its popularity was boosted by American actress Marilyn Monroe, who in the 1950s declared that she wore "just a few drops of Chanel No. 5 to bed."

French stamp from 2004

In 2004, Chanel No. 5 made its way into the world of philately. The French postal administration La Poste issued a special stamp featuring the iconic perfume bottle. This stamp is one of the so-called thematic issues focusing on design, fashion and the cultural heritage of France. It was printed in a sumptuous graphic design and quickly became a collector's item.

This stamp has the catalogue number MiNr. 3774 I, was issued in 2004 and is printed using the offset technique. Interestingly, it is a modern stamp that has nevertheless become an icon of philatelic collections focused on fashion and cosmetics.

Channel No. 5 as a cultural symbol

The depiction of Chanel No. 5 on a postage stamp is not only a recognition of its importance in the field of perfumery, but also an acknowledgement of its place in the wider cultural heritage of France. In this way, the French Republic has officially affirmed that a fragrance can be not only a commercial product but also a work of art and a national symbol.