New Brunswick 1860 17c Black, Charles Connell

New Brunswick · 1860 · 17c

This definitive stamp features a portrait of Charles Connell, the Postmaster General of New Brunswick at the time. The design is notable for its intricate engraving and the prominent display of the denomination, '17 CENTS', at the bottom. It was part of the first decimal currency series issued by the colony.

Issued in 1860, this stamp is famous for the controversy it caused. Connell placed his own portrait on the 5-cent value instead of Queen Victoria's, leading to a public outcry that forced his resignation and the withdrawal of the 5c stamp. This 17c value, however, was issued as intended.