European Stamp Collars and Porte Timbres

Porte Timbres

French Stamp Collars

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"Porte Timbres" (French for "Stamp Carriers") are labels with a blank space, usually in the middle, where a postage stamp could be applied. The combined label was then pasted on an envelope where the stamp was supposed to go.
These were a popular device in the early 20th century in Europe, especially in France (hence their name). They were used for patriotic and charitable messages, as well as for ordinary advertising. The center, where the stamp could be placed, was often totally blank, but sometimes bore a simple message either supporting the organization selling them, or explaining their use. The border contained a message to surround the postage stamp and promote the cause.
In the US, these are usually called "Stamp Collars" or "Advertising Collars." I've seen no American examples as labels - instead, they were printed directly on envelopes, "CLICK HERE" for more about those.

PATRIOTIC COLLARS

ANTI-ALCOHOL COLLAR

CHARITY COLLARS?

Are the four labels below porte timbres? My friend Bill Weinberger, an expert on cinderellas, says not, since they have a message in the middle. But a French eBay seller says they are, though he could not provide examples of them being used that way. I own them, and can confirm that their size is correct for use as collars, but that does not mean they were produced for that purpose. Can anyone provide evidence that they really are porte timbres? Email the author at