This is a Great Britain Penny Red, first issued in 1841 as the successor to the world’s first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black. It features the profile of Queen Victoria, engraved by Charles Heath and based on William Wyon’s medallic portrait. Printed in a rich red-brown shade, the stamp bears the denomination “ONE PENNY” at the foot, with alphabet check letters (“M” and “C”) in the lower corners identifying its position in the printing sheet. The lattice side patterns and corner letters were introduced to deter forgery and reuse.

Widely used throughout the Victorian era, Penny Reds are highly collectible due to their numerous printings, shades, and plate varieties. This used example, with a bold cancellation across the portrait, is a fine piece of postal history representing Britain’s pioneering role in global philately.