W.H. Smith 3d Advertising Ring Indicia

United Kingdom · 1890 · 3d

The stamp features an impressed profile portrait of Queen Victoria facing left, within an oval frame. An outer ring contains advertising text for W.H. Smith, surrounding the central indicium.

This is an example of early postal stationery from the United Kingdom, featuring an impressed indicium of Queen Victoria. The inclusion of an advertising ring by W.H. Smith highlights the commercial use and integration of postal services with private businesses in the late 19th century.