2nd Class Stamp Appraisal

UK 'Madonna and Child' 2nd Class Christmas Stamp

This item is a United Kingdom postage stamp, specifically a 'Madonna and Child' design issued for Christmas. The stamp features a rectangular shape with serrated edges, typical of most postage stamps, indicating it has been separated from a sheet. The primary image on the stamp depicts the Madonna (Virgin Mary) holding the infant Jesus. The Holy Mother is shown with a dark blue or black veil draped over her head and shoulders, with her inner garment appearing in a rich gold or yellow hue. The Christ child is depicted in a red garment, reaching out. The style of the artwork suggests a classical or Renaissance influence, possibly a detail from a religious painting. In the upper left corner of the stamp, the denomination '2ND' is visible, indicating it is a second-class postage stamp. The traditional silhouette of Queen Elizabeth II's head is present in the upper right corner, a standard feature on UK stamps, though it is slightly blurred in the image. The background of the artwork is a vibrant golden color, contributing to the traditional religious aesthetic. The stamp appears to be in an unused condition, as there are no visible cancellation marks. While the image is slightly out of focus, particularly around the edges of the Madonna and Child, the overall condition of the stamp itself appears good, with no obvious tears, creases, or major discoloration. The perforations are intact and well-formed. Given its subject matter and '2ND' class denomination, this stamp is likely a modern Christmas issue, probably from the late 20th or early 21st century.