Jamaica 1860-1870 Queen Victoria Pineapple Watermark

Jamaica · 1860 · 1d

This is Jamaica's first postage stamp, featuring a diademed portrait of Queen Victoria. The design, engraved by Jean Ferdinand Joubert de la Ferté, is set within an octagonal frame and was printed by De La Rue in London. The stamp is notable for its 'Pineapple' watermark, a security feature used on early Jamaican issues.

Issued in 1860, this stamp marks Jamaica's entry into the postal union under British colonial rule, replacing the use of British stamps. The introduction of local postage was a significant step in the development of the island's independent infrastructure.