Description
GREAT BRITAIN • Queen Victoria 1d Penny Black
The Queen Victoria 1d Penny Black is one of the most famous stamps in the history of British philately. Released on May 6, 1840, it was the first adhesive postage stamp used in the United Kingdom. It features a portrait of Queen Victoria, designed by James Whistler and engraved by Charles Heath. The stamp itself is a black image with a value of one penny (1d).
The black Maltese Cross marks are notable in the history of this stamp, as they were part of the early cancellation method used for the Penny Black. This cancellation design featured a Maltese Cross, which was used to prevent the reuse of stamps. The stamps were often canceled by hand using a black inked cross that appeared over the stamp, making it clear that the postage had already been used.
Key Features:
- Issued: May 6, 1840
- Design: Queen Victoria’s portrait in black ink
- Value: 1 penny (1d)
- Cancellation: Black Maltese Cross (hand-stamped with black ink, often irregular in shape)
- Rarity: The Penny Black with the Maltese Cross is especially sought after by collectors, with the cancellation playing a key role in its value.
Over time, the Maltese Cross was replaced by other cancellation methods, but it remains iconic in stamp collecting.
