Canada 12d Black Empress
Canada · 1851 · 12d
This stamp features a portrait of Queen Victoria, specifically the 'Chalon Head' portrait by Alfred Edward Chalon. The design is framed by intricate lathework, with the denomination 'TWELVE PENCE' at the bottom and 'CANADA POSTAGE' at the top. It was printed in black on laid paper.
Issued in 1851, the 12d Black was one of Canada's first postage stamps. Its high face value, equivalent to a shilling, meant it was rarely used for domestic mail and was typically reserved for postage on letters to distant destinations, contributing to its scarcity.
Printing Method
Engraved
Catalog Numbers
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View on Wikimedia CommonsEstimated Values by Condition
Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults
Well centered, fresh colors
Nicely centered, minor flaws
Average centering, acceptable
Off-center or visible wear
Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.