Greece 1861 Large Hermes Head, 1 Lepton

Greece · 1861 · 1 Lepton

This stamp features the 'Large Hermes Head' design, a classic and iconic image in philately. The profile of the Greek god Hermes, messenger of the gods, is depicted facing right, modeled after a medal by French engraver Albert Désiré Barre. This was the first postage stamp issued by Greece.

Issued shortly after Greece's independence, these stamps symbolized the nation's new sovereignty and its connection to its classical Hellenic heritage. The printing plates were produced in Paris, reflecting the close ties between Greece and France at the time.