Lion Emblem Stamp Appraisal

Finnish 1 Mark Stamp with Lion Emblem, Postmarked

This item is a postage stamp from Finland, featuring the national emblem of a lion. The stamp is predominantly light reddish-brown or rose in color with a darker, possibly black, ink overprint or cancellation mark. The lion emblem is depicted in a detailed, somewhat heraldic style, standing on its hind legs (rampant) with a sword in one paw and treading on nine roses or rosettes in the background. The design is framed by an oval or circular border with text that includes 'SUOMEN' at the top and 'FINLAND' at the bottom, indicating its Finnish origin. The denomination '1 MARKKA' (or '1 M.' simplified) is visible at the bottom center of the stamp. The stamp itself is perforated along all four edges, indicating it was separated from a sheet. A prominent, heavy black circular date cancellation mark obscures a significant portion of the stamp's design, making the date and originating post office difficult to read precisely. However, parts of numbers '12' and '2,' possibly a month and day, are discernible within the cancellation. The wavy background pattern is visible through the lighter areas of the stamp. The overall condition appears used, as evidenced by the cancellation, and there might be some minor toning or age-related discoloration consistent with philatelic items of this age. The perforations seem to be mostly intact, though the exact condition of each tooth cannot be fully assessed from the image. The craftsmanship points to a standard government-issued postage stamp, likely from the late 19th or early 20th century given the style and currency (Markka being used in Finland until 2002, but this design appears older). The design is intricate for a stamp of this scale, suggesting traditional engraving or lithography.