Denmark 2 Rigsbank-Skilling Blue "Fire-Footed" Plate Error

Denmark · 1851 · 2 Rigsbank-Skilling

This is Denmark's first postage stamp, featuring a crown, sceptre, and sword within a wreath, with the denomination "2 RBS" below. This specific variety is a famous plate error known as the "Ferslew Plate II, position 86" or "fire-footed" error, where a flaw in the printing plate creates a distinctive mark resembling a flame or foot at the base of the left numeral '2'. The stamp is printed on yellowish paper and is imperforate.

Issued in 1851, this stamp marks Denmark's entry into the postal reform movement that began with Great Britain's Penny Black. It was part of the first series intended to prepay postage, simplifying the mail system.