Moldavian Bull's Head, 27 Parale

Romania · 1858 · 27 Parale

This stamp, known as the 'Cap de Bour' or Bull's Head, was the first postage stamp issued by the Principality of Moldavia. The design features the coat of arms of Moldavia: an aurochs's head (bull's head) with a five-pointed star between its horns, accompanied by a post horn and the denomination. The stamp is hand-printed on laid paper, resulting in significant variations between individual examples.

Issued in 1858, this stamp represents a significant moment in Romanian postal history, predating the unification of the principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia that would form the basis of modern Romania. It is one of the most iconic and sought-after classic European stamps.