This classic British postage and revenue stamp, issued between 1883 and 1884 during Queen Victoria’s reign, features her left-facing portrait finely engraved within an ornate frame. The design combines a rich lilac center with a pale blue background, symbolizing both authority and elegance. The denomination “2½d” appears prominently at the base, intended for standard foreign letter rates of the period. Printed by De La Rue, the issue exemplifies the refined craftsmanship and dual postal-fiscal purpose of late-Victorian British stamps. A favorite among collectors for its striking bicolor contrast and historic postal usage.