Ethiopia, Menelik II, 1/4 Guerche

Ethiopia · 1894 · 1/4 Guerche

This stamp features a profile portrait of Emperor Menelik II, a significant figure in Ethiopian history. The design is framed by ornate patterns and includes the Lion of Judah, a traditional symbol of Ethiopian royalty, at the top. The denomination is written in Amharic script.

Issued in 1894, this was the first postage stamp of Ethiopia, marking the country's entry into the Universal Postal Union and asserting its sovereignty during a period of European colonial expansion in Africa.