Cherry Blossom, 1 sen brown, 1872

Japan · 1872 · 1 sen

This classic stamp from Japan's early postal history features a stylized cherry blossom (sakura) at its center, a significant cultural symbol. The design is intricately engraved and includes the denomination '1 Sen' in both Japanese characters and Western numerals, reflecting Japan's modernization during the Meiji era. The stamp is part of the 'Cherry Blossom' series, one of the first definitive issues of the country.

Issued during the Meiji Restoration, this stamp represents Japan's rapid modernization and adoption of Western systems, including a standardized postal service. The Cherry Blossom series replaced the earlier Dragon issues and became a long-running, iconic design.