Greece Large Hermes Head, 10 Lepta

Greece · 1861 · 10 Lepta

This stamp features the 'Large Hermes Head' design, a classic and iconic image in Greek philately. The design, created by French artist Albert Désiré Barre, depicts the head of the Greek god Hermes in profile, facing right, inspired by an ancient coin. This was part of the first series of stamps issued by Greece, establishing a design that would be used for decades.

Issued in 1861, this stamp represents the establishment of a national postal system in the newly independent Kingdom of Greece. The choice of Hermes, the messenger god, was a fitting symbol for the new nation's communication system.