Latvia First Definitive Issue, Coat of Arms

Latvia · 1918 · 5 Kapeikas

This stamp is part of Latvia's first definitive series, issued shortly after its declaration of independence. The design features the newly adopted national coat of arms, which incorporates symbols representing the historical regions of Kurzeme, Vidzeme, and Latgale, surmounted by three stars symbolizing their unity.

Issued in December 1918, just one month after Latvia declared independence from both German and Russian rule, these stamps were a powerful assertion of national sovereignty.