Japan Ryū 'Dragon' Mon Stamp, 48 Mon

Japan · 1871 · 48 Mon

This is the first postage stamp issued by Japan, part of the 'Dragon' series. The design features two stylized dragons facing each other, with the denomination '48 Mon' inscribed in a central circle. The intricate engraving and traditional imagery make it a classic of early Japanese philately.

Issued during the Meiji Restoration, this stamp represents Japan's rapid modernization and the establishment of a national postal system, replacing the centuries-old courier system.