Estonia, 1918, First Issue, 5 kopecks

Estonia · 1918 · 5 kopecks

This stamp is the first postage stamp issued by the newly independent Republic of Estonia. The design features a simple numeral '5' for the denomination within a patterned background, often referred to as a 'flower' or 'honeycomb' design. It was printed in Tallinn on the back of unfinished German military maps due to paper shortages following World War I.

Issued in November 1918, this stamp marks Estonia's declaration of independence from the Russian Empire and the end of German occupation after World War I. The use of German military maps for printing highlights the resourcefulness and challenges faced by the new nation.