Chile 1853 5c Christopher Columbus, Lithographed

Chile · 1853 · 5c

This is Chile's first postage stamp, featuring a portrait of Christopher Columbus. The design is based on an engraving by Desmadryl and was lithographed by Gillet in Santiago. It was issued imperforate and is notable for its simple yet classic design, marking the beginning of Chile's postal history.

Issued in 1853 during the presidency of Manuel Montt, this stamp facilitated the standardization of postal rates within Chile, reflecting the nation's growing administrative and commercial organization in the mid-19th century.