Centenario Primer Timbre Postal Appraisal

Mexico 1940 Centenario del Primer Timbre Postal Overprint Stamp

This item is a postage stamp, likely a commemorative issue from Mexico, celebrating the centenary of the first postage stamp. The stamp itself features a reproduction or homage to the 'Penny Black,' the world's first adhesive postage stamp, originally issued in Great Britain in 1840. The central vignette depicts a left-facing profile of Queen Victoria, rendered in white against a deep purple or violet background, characteristic of the original Penny Black's design. The Queen is adorned with a royal diadem and her hair is intricately styled. The border of the central image exhibits a delicate, latticework pattern. Prominently displayed at the top, in semi-circular text, are the words "CENTENARIO DEL PRIMER TIMBRE POSTAL EN EL MUNDO" (Centenary of the First Postage Stamp in the World). To the left, vertically arranged, it reads "INGLATERRA MAYO 6 D 1840" (England May 6, 1840), indicating the origin and date of the first stamp. To the right, also vertically, it says "TIMBRE POSTAL EN EL MUNDO". Below the central image, the phrase "CONE PENNY" (an intended misspelling/stylization or reproduction of "ONE PENNY") is visible, further linking it to the Penny Black. Crucially, this stamp features a prominent black overprint. The overprint includes the denomination "10 CENT" and the word "CORREOS" (Postage/Mail) and "MEXICO", along with the year "1940". This overprint is applied boldly, sometimes partially obscuring the underlying design. The bottom edge of the stamp also legible says "TALLER DE IMP. DE PALACIAS Y VALORES - MEXICO" (Printing Workshop of Palaces and Values - Mexico), indicating the issuer and printer. The stamp appears to be perforated, with visible serrated edges. The overall condition shows a heavy black postmark or cancellation mark, which extends across a significant portion of the stamp, particularly over the Queen's profile and the lower text. The paper appears to be off-white or light cream in color. The stamp's age is estimated to be from 1940, based on the visible date. The quality indicators point to standard postal stamp production for commemorative purposes.