Canada 12-Pence Black, "Black Empress"

Name: Canada 12-Pence Black, "Black Empress"
Brand: Canada

Canada · 1851 · 12 Pence

This definitive stamp, known as the "Black Empress," features the Chalon Portrait of a young Queen Victoria. Printed on laid paper, it is renowned for its intricate engraving and striking black ink, making it one of the most iconic and beautiful classic stamps ever produced. The design was created by Alfred Edward Chalon and engraved by Perkins, Bacon & Co. in London.

Issued by the Province of Canada before confederation, the 12d Black was intended for prepayment of postage on letters to Newfoundland and the United States. Due to its high face value, very few were sold or used, contributing to its legendary status today.

Printing Method

Engraved

Themes

royalty queen-victoria portraits heads-of-state

Catalog Numbers

sg3

scott3

michel3

Image: · License:

View on Wikimedia Commons

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.