Marzocco 1c carmine on bluish paper

Front — click image to enlarge

US$50US$57**ⓘ

From Tuscany's very first stamp issue, 1 April 1851.

ConditionUsed, imperforate, three margins typical of the issue, Florence “Banderuola” cancellation, 8 Nov. 1852

CatalogueSassone 4b (€500)

Expert markAlberto Diena (Pencil signature on reverse)

Issue background

Issued on 1 April 1851, Tuscany’s first stamps show the Marzocco, the heraldic lion of Florence as it’s known in philately. One of the city’s oldest civic symbols, tied to strength, justice, and republican identity. With its paw resting on the Florentine shield, the design feels almost declarative.…

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