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Canada 12d Black Empress
legendarypre-1900

Canada 12d Black Empress

Canada · 1851 · 12d

This stamp features a portrait of a young Queen Victoria, based on the 'Chalon Head' portrait by Alfred Edward Chalon. The design is framed by intricate lathework, with the denomination 'TWELVE PENCE' at the bottom. It was printed on laid paper and is considered one of the most beautiful classic stamps ever produced.

Issued by the Province of Canada, this was one of the first stamps produced in the colony. Its high denomination of twelve pence meant it was rarely used, primarily for postage on heavy letters to distant destinations, contributing to its scarcity.

Catalog Numbers

sg3
scott3
michel3

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$250,000
Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$175,000
Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$100,000
Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$50,000
Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$15,000

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