Finland 5 Kopecks Oval, Imperforate

Finland · 1856 · 5 Kopecks

This is the first postage stamp issued by Finland, which was then an autonomous Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire. The design features the Finnish coat of arms, a crowned lion rampant holding a sword, set within a beaded oval frame. The denomination of 5 Kopecks is indicated by numerals in the upper corners, reflecting the Russian currency in use at the time.

Issued on March 3, 1856, this stamp marked the beginning of Finland's postal independence, even while under Russian rule. It was used for internal mail within Finland.