Canada 1851 3d Red 'Beaver' on Laid Paper

Canada · 1851 · 3d (Three Pence)

This stamp, known as the 'Three-Pence Beaver', was the first postage stamp issued by the Province of Canada. Designed by Sir Sandford Fleming, it features a beaver building a dam in the center, with the St. Edward's Crown above and the denomination 'THREE PENCE' below. The design symbolized the industriousness of the Canadian people and the importance of the fur trade to the early economy.

Issued in 1851, this stamp marks the transfer of postal authority from the British General Post Office to the colonial administration of the Province of Canada. It is considered a classic of world philately and a cornerstone of any Canadian collection.