Costa Rica 1863 Coat of Arms, 1/2 Real Blue

Costa Rica · 1863 · 1/2 Real

This is the first postage stamp issued by Costa Rica. The design features the national Coat of Arms, which includes three volcanoes representing the country's three mountain ranges, two ships symbolizing trade on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and seven stars for the seven provinces. The denomination is shown as 'MEDIO REAL' at the bottom.

Issued in 1863, this stamp marks Costa Rica's entry into the global postal system, replacing the use of British stamps in the country. It was printed in London by the American Bank Note Company.