Portugal 1853 Queen Maria II 25 réis dark blue

Portugal · 1853 · 25 réis

This stamp features a right-facing embossed profile of Queen Maria II of Portugal. It is part of the first series of postage stamps issued by Portugal, known for their simple, elegant design and lack of country name, which was common for early issues. The stamp is denominated at 25 réis and printed in dark blue.

Issued in 1853, this was Portugal's first postage stamp, marking its entry into the global postal system pioneered by Great Britain's Penny Black. The stamp's design, featuring the reigning monarch, set a standard for subsequent Portuguese issues.