Russia Coat of Arms, First Definitive Stamp

Russian Empire · 1857 · 10 kopecks

This is the first postage stamp issued by the Russian Empire, released in December 1857. The design features the imperial coat of arms, a double-headed eagle holding a scepter and orb, surmounted by the imperial crown. Below the central design is the Post Horn symbol, signifying postal service.

Issued under Tsar Alexander II, this stamp marked Russia's entry into the global postal system, simplifying mail delivery across the vast empire. It was imperforate, meaning it had to be cut from the sheet with scissors.