Basel Dove

Switzerland · 1845 · 2 1/2 rappen

The Basel Dove is a notable stamp issued by the Swiss canton of Basel in 1845. It features a white dove embossed in the center, carrying a letter in its beak, set against a light blue and crimson background. Designed by architect Melchior Berri, it was the world's first tri-color stamp, printed using black, crimson, and blue ink.

This stamp was issued for local postage within the canton of Basel, predating the establishment of a unified Swiss federal postal system in 1849. It is one of the classic and highly sought-after cantonal issues of Switzerland.