Philately Costa Rica Appraisal

Costa Rica 10 Centimos Isla del Coco Postage Stamp

This item is a postage stamp from the Republic of Costa Rica, specifically depicting 'Isla del Coco' (Cocos Island). The stamp is predominantly red or reddish-pink in color, enclosed within an ornate, rectangular border featuring intricate scrolling designs. At the top, it clearly states 'REPUBLICA DE COSTA RICA' and below that 'CORREOS'. The central image shows a map-like representation of Isla del Coco with the words 'ISLA DEL COCO' inscribed upon it. Flanking the island on a turbulent sea are two sailing ships, presumably historical vessels, adding to a sense of maritime exploration or historical significance associated with the island. The denomination '10' is prominently displayed in circular, ornate frames in both the bottom left and bottom right corners. Between these numerical denominations, the text reads 'ISLA DEL COCO' again, followed by 'DIEZ CENTIMOS', which translates to 'Ten Centavos' in Spanish. At the very bottom, in smaller print, 'AMERICAN BANK NOTE CO' is visible, indicating the manufacturer of the stamp. The stamp appears to be perforated along its edges, a standard characteristic of postage stamps, suggesting it was part of a larger sheet. The visible condition indicates it is an unused stamp, as there is no cancellation mark. There might be some slight discoloration or paper aging consistent with its probable age, but no significant tears, creases, or major damage are immediately evident. The overall aesthetic suggests an early 20th-century or potentially late 19th-century design, characterized by detailed engraving and a somewhat formal typeface. The quality of printing appears to be good, with clear lines and text, characteristic of stamps produced by reputable companies like American Bank Note Co. It embodies a blend of geographical, historical, and philatelic interest.