First Issue of Latvia, Map of Latvia

Latvia · 1918 · 5 Kapeikas

This stamp, the first issued by the newly independent Republic of Latvia, features a map of the country with three ears of wheat superimposed, symbolizing agriculture and national identity. The design is simple and functional, printed on the back of unfinished German military maps due to paper shortages following World War I.

Issued on December 18, 1918, just one month after Latvia declared its independence from the Russian Empire, this stamp represents the birth of the nation's postal service and sovereignty.