Queen Victoria Definitives

Hong Kong · 1862 · 96 Cents

This definitive stamp features a left-facing portrait of Queen Victoria, based on the 'Chalon Head' design by Alfred Edward Chalon. The design is framed by an ornate oval, with the denomination '96 CENTS' at the bottom and 'HONG KONG' at the top. The stamp is printed in an olive-bistre color.

Issued as part of Hong Kong's first series of postage stamps under British colonial rule, this high-value stamp was used for mail to distant destinations. The 'Chalon Head' design was a common feature on stamps across the British Empire during this period.