In Aid Of Soldiers And Their Families Appraisal

Russian Zemstvo Stamp, 1 Kopek, 'In aid of soldiers and their families'

This item is a historical Russian Zemstvo postal stamp, featuring a design centered around a male figure reminiscent of a medieval warrior or a bogatyr (a knight-errant in Slavic folklore). The stamp has a predominant color scheme of maroon-red for the frame and text elements, contrasted with a deep teal-green for the background behind the central figure, while the figure himself and his shield are presented in a lighter, almost off-white or beige hue with black linework for details. The border is intricately designed with a repeating decorative pattern, typical of early 20th-century philately. The denomination '1 КОП' (1 Kopek) is clearly visible in the upper left and right corners. Text 'ПОЧТА' (POST) is at the very top. The central figure is depicted with a long, flowing beard, wearing a helmet (possibly a shishak or similar medieval helm) and chainmail armor. He holds what appears to be a sword or a large dagger behind his right shoulder and clutches a round shield in his left hand. The shield bears the image of a double-headed eagle, a traditional symbol of the Russian Empire. Below the central image, there is additional Cyrillic text, which translates roughly to 'ВЪ ПОЛЬЗУ ВОИНОВЪ И ИХЪ СЕМЕЙСТВЪ' (In aid of soldiers and their families) and beneath that, '2 КОП ПРОДАЖНАЯ ЦЕНА КОП 2' (Selling price 2 Kopeks), indicating this might be a semi-postal stamp where the additional cost went to charity. The stamp exhibits a perforated edge, indicating it was separated from a sheet. The visible condition suggests some age-related toning or slight discoloration of the paper, consistent with a vintage item. There are no obvious tears or significant damage visible, and the perforations appear largely intact, though some minor rounding might be present on one or two teeth. The printing quality appears to be average for the era, with clear but not exceptionally sharp details. The artistic style leans towards a national romanticism or historical revival, common in imperial Russian design.