Greece Hermes Head, 10 Lepta, Orange

Greece · 1861 · 10 Lepta

This stamp features the head of the Greek god Hermes, modeled after a sculpture by Barre. It is part of the first series of Greek postage stamps, known as the 'Large Hermes Heads'. The design is characterized by its classic simplicity and the fine execution of the portrait within a rectangular frame.

Issued in 1861, this was one of the first stamps of the newly independent Kingdom of Greece, marking a significant step in establishing a national postal system. The choice of Hermes, the messenger of the gods, was a symbolic nod to the nation's classical heritage.