This 40 Francs stamp from the République Malgache (Madagascar) features the butterfly Acraea hova, a species native to the island. The insect is illustrated with wings spread, displaying its delicate spotted pattern in red and brown shades, set against a green botanical background. Issued during the early independence period of Madagascar, the stamp reflects the country’s rich biodiversity. At the bottom, the national motto in Malagasy – Fahafahana, Tanindrazana, Fandrosoana (“Liberty, Fatherland, Progress”) – is inscribed, symbolizing the ideals of the young republic. This issue is popular among collectors of butterfly thematics and African wildlife stamps.