Costa Rica, 1863 Coat of Arms

Costa Rica · 1863 · 1/2 Real

This is the first postage stamp issued by Costa Rica, featuring the national coat of arms. The design includes three volcanoes representing the country's three mountain ranges, a rising sun, and two ships on either side symbolizing trade via the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Five stars in the arch represent the five provinces of the time.

Issued in 1863, this stamp marks Costa Rica's entry into the global postal system, reflecting its growing stability and international trade connections as a republic.