StampVault
Back to Catalog
Belgium 'Epaulettes' King Leopold I
uncommonpre-1900

Belgium 'Epaulettes' King Leopold I

Belgium · 1849 · 10c

This is the first postage stamp issued by Belgium, featuring a portrait of King Leopold I in military uniform with prominent epaulettes, from which the stamp derives its popular nickname. The design, engraved by Jacob Wiener, is framed by ornate scrollwork and includes the denomination 'DIX CENT.' at the bottom.

Issued in 1849, this stamp followed the British postal reforms and marks Belgium's entry into the age of prepaid postage, simplifying mail delivery and communication within the kingdom.

Catalog Numbers

sg1
scott1
michel1

Image: · License:

View on Wikimedia Commons

Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$450
Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$300
Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$150
Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$75
Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$30

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.