Uruguay 'Sun of May' First Issue

Name: Uruguay 'Sun of May' First Issue
Brand: Uruguay

Uruguay · 1856 · 80c

This stamp, known as the 'Sello del Sol de Mayo' or 'Sun of May' stamp, is the first postage stamp issued by Uruguay. The design features a radiant sun, a national emblem representing the May Revolution and Uruguayan independence. It was printed in a distinctive carmine-vermilion color.

Issued in 1856, this stamp marks Uruguay's entry into the global postal system, following the trend set by Great Britain's Penny Black. It was used for internal mail carried by stagecoach.

Printing Method

Lithography

Themes

first-issue sun symbolism national-emblem

Catalog Numbers

sg1

scott1

michel1

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Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$15,000

Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$10,000

Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$6,500

Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$3,000

Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$800

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