Chrysanthemum Crest and Kiri Paulownia Crests

Japan · 1876 · 12 sen

This definitive stamp, part of the Koban series, features a highly detailed design centered around the Imperial Seal of Japan, the Chrysanthemum. It is flanked by two Kiri mon, or Paulownia crests, another symbol associated with the government and imperial family. The denomination '12 SEN' is inscribed at the bottom, with Japanese characters for 'Imperial Japanese Post' at the top.

Issued during the Meiji era, the Koban series represented a modernization of Japan's postal system, using Western-style engraving techniques. This series was in use for over a decade and was the primary postage for a period of significant industrial and social change in Japan.