Mexico Hidalgo 'Plata' Issue

Mexico · 1856 · ½ Real

This stamp features a portrait of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a key figure in Mexico's War of Independence. It is part of Mexico's first definitive series, known as the 'Hidalgo' issue, which was crudely engraved and printed. The stamps were issued without perforations and often show district overprints, which were used as a security measure against theft.

Issued in 1856, this was Mexico's first postage stamp, marking its entry into the global postal system. The use of district overprints is a unique feature of early Mexican philately.