Russia 1857 10 kopek "Tiflis Unique"

Russian Empire · 1857 · 10 Kopeks

The Tiflis Unique is the first postage stamp issued by the Russian Empire for the city post of Tiflis (now Tbilisi, Georgia) and Kojori. The design features the coat of arms of Tiflis, an eagle with outstretched wings, embossed on yellow paper. It is considered one of the greatest rarities in Russian and world philately.

Issued in 1857, this stamp predates Russia's first general issue by a few months, making it a significant local post issue from the Russian Empire era. Its creation was authorized to facilitate postal service in the Caucasus region.