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Uruguay 'Diligencia' Sun of May Postage Stamp
very rarepre-1900

Uruguay 'Diligencia' Sun of May Postage Stamp

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 of May', a national emblem of Uruguay and Argentina, symbolizing the Incan sun god Inti. The simple yet iconic design is framed by the inscription 'DILIGENCIA' at the top and the denomination '60' at the bottom.

Issued in 1856 for use on stagecoach routes managed by the administrator of the stagecoach lines, Atanasio Lapido. These stamps prepaid the carriage of letters between major towns, marking the beginning of Uruguay's postal history.

Printing Method

Lithography

Catalog Numbers

sg1
scott1
michel1

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$1,500
Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$1,200
Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$900
Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$600
Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$250

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.