King Leopold I, Epaulettes Type
Belgium · 1849 · 10c
This stamp features a left-facing portrait of King Leopold I, the first King of the Belgians, framed within an ornate design. Known as the 'Epaulettes' issue due to the prominent military epaulettes on the King's uniform, it was Belgium's first postage stamp. The denomination '10c' is displayed at the bottom.
Issued on July 1, 1849, this stamp marks Belgium's entry into the postal reform movement that began with Great Britain's Penny Black. It standardized and prepaid postage, revolutionizing the country's mail system.
Printing Method
Engraved
Catalog Numbers
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View on Wikimedia CommonsEstimated Values by Condition
Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults
Well centered, fresh colors
Nicely centered, minor flaws
Average centering, acceptable
Off-center or visible wear
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