Switzerland 'Double Geneva' Cantonal Stamp

Switzerland · 1843 · 5 + 5 Centimes

The 'Double Geneva' is one of the earliest stamps issued by a Swiss canton. The design features two identical halves, each showing the coat of arms of Geneva (an eagle and a key) with the inscription '5 C. Port Cantonal'. The stamp was designed to be cut in half for local delivery within the city, or used whole for delivery within the canton.

Issued by the Canton of Geneva in 1843, this stamp predates the first federal issues of Switzerland. It is a classic example of the early, locally-issued postage stamps that appeared in the years following Great Britain's Penny Black.