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Uruguay 'Diligencia' Stagecoach
very rarepre-1900

Uruguay 'Diligencia' Stagecoach

Uruguay · 1856 · 80 Centésimos

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, surrounded by the inscription 'DILIGENCIA' at the top and the denomination '80 CENTESIMOS' at the bottom. It was printed crudely by lithography, resulting in many variations.

Issued in 1856 for use on private stagecoach routes run by Anastasio de Lapido, this stamp predates Uruguay's official government postal issues. It is considered a classic of South American philately.

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

$650
Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$300

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