Greece Small Hermes Head, 20 Lepta, Paris Printing

Greece · 1862 · 20 Lepta

This stamp features the classic Small Hermes Head design, a profile of the Greek god Hermes based on a medal by French engraver Albert Désiré Barre. The design is framed by an ornate border with the denomination '20 ΛΕΠΤΑ' at the bottom. This particular issue is from the Paris printings, characterized by fine, clear impressions and specific paper types.

Issued as part of Greece's first definitive series, the Small Hermes Heads were used for over two decades, with numerous printings in Paris and later Athens. They represent a foundational period in Greek philately and the establishment of a national postal system.