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Uruguay 'Diligencia' Sun of May
very rarepre-1900

Uruguay 'Diligencia' Sun of May

Uruguay · 1856 · 1 Real

This stamp, known as the 'Diligencia' (Stagecoach), is one of the first postage stamps issued by Uruguay. The design features a radiant 'Sun of May,' a national emblem of Uruguay and Argentina, surrounded by the inscription 'DILIGENCIA' at the top and the denomination 'UN REAL' at the bottom. The simple yet iconic design was printed in blue.

Issued in October 1856 for use on private stagecoach routes, the Diligencia stamps predate Uruguay's official government postal issues. They are considered classic philatelic rarities and represent the dawn of postal services in the country.

Printing Method

Lithography

Catalog Numbers

sg2
scott1b
michel1b

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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.