Naval History Stamp Appraisal

Gibraltar 1D Postage Stamp depicting HMS Victory and Queen Elizabeth II

This item is a Gibraltar postage stamp, specifically a 1 penny (1D) denomination stamp, featuring a prominent image of the HMS Victory and a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The stamp exhibits a rectangular shape with perforated edges, typical of traditional postage stamps, suggesting it was intended for postal use. The primary color of the stamp appears to be a reddish-pink or salmon hue, providing a vibrant background for the detailed imagery. The left side of the stamp displays the numerical denomination '1D' vertically stacked, with the 'D' likely standing for 'penny'. The central and largest portion of the stamp features a drawing or illustration of the ship 'HMS Victory' with its sails unfurled, rendered in a darker tone, possibly black or dark brown, contrasting with the background. Above the ship, the text 'HMS. VICTORY' is clearly visible. To the right of the ship, a profile portrait of Queen Elizabeth II is depicted, facing left, rendered with significant detail for a small stamp. Below her portrait, a smaller coat of arms or emblem is visible. The bottom edge of the stamp features the word 'GIBRALTAR' in capital letters, signifying its origin. Given the presence of Queen Elizabeth II's portrait, the stamp likely dates from her reign, which began in 1952. The '1D' denomination suggests it could be from before decimalization in 1971 in the UK and its territories, or specifically from a period when Gibraltar used this denomination. The overall condition of the stamp appears good from the image, with no obvious major tears, creases, or significant discoloration. Its edges are clean and well-defined. The stamp is currently shown resting on what appears to be a pair of blue denim jeans, which provides a sense of its small scale, though precise dimensions are not ascertainable from the image. The craftsmanship appears to be of standard postal stamp quality, with clear printing and distinct imagery.