Canada 3-cent 'Beaver' Stamp

Canada · 1859 · 3 Cents

This stamp, commonly known as the 'Beaver', features a detailed engraving of a beaver building a dam. The design is framed by an oval containing the denomination 'THREE CENTS' and is surmounted by the St Edward's Crown, symbolizing Canadian sovereignty under the British monarchy. It was the first stamp issued by the united Province of Canada in a decimal currency.

Issued in 1859, this stamp marked Canada's transition from the British pounds, shillings, and pence system to a decimal currency of dollars and cents, a significant step in the nation's financial and postal autonomy.