Originally published December 30, 2011.

When it comes to postage stamps one of the finest issues is the Penny Red.  It has a very nice design and is, in my honest opinion, one of the most elegant stamps issued.

I am lucky enough to have 2 currently in my collection, one on cover

Penny Red – Plate 117 posted Edinburgh February 14, 1870

Close up of the Plate Number

and a single used copy.

Penny Red – Plate 99

Penny Red – Plate 99 Back with Large Crown Watermark

Although not in the greatest shape, for tiny pieces of paper over almost 150 years old they aren’t doing too badly.

For more information on the Penny Red you can check out:
http://www.pennystars.com/
http://www.useless.connectfree.co.uk/pennyred/pennyred.htm
http://www.imagesoftheworld.org/stamps/pennyred.html