Uruguay 1856 'Diligencia' Stagecoach, 60 Centesimos Blue

Uruguay · 1856 · 60 Centesimos

This stamp, known as the 'Diligencia' (Stagecoach), is the first postage stamp issued by Uruguay. The design features a radiant sun, a national emblem, surrounded by the inscription 'DILIGENCIA' at the top and the denomination '60 CENTESIMOS' at the bottom. It was printed in blue on a whitish paper without perforations.

Issued in October 1856 for use on private stagecoach routes run by Anastasio de Lapido, this stamp prepaid postage on letters carried between major towns. It predates Uruguay's official government postal issues, making it a classic and historically significant piece.