Portuguese Colonial Currency Appraisal

Portuguese India 1½ Reis Postage Stamp

This is a rectangular postage stamp from Portuguese India, likely dating between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The stamp is printed in a muted, earthy yellow or light brown ink on cream-colored paper. It features a central portrait, possibly of a Portuguese monarch such as King Carlos I, framed within an oval border. The text inscribed along the right side reads 'INDIA' and 'PORTUGAL'. A prominent black overprint or surcharge '1½ REIS' is visible on the left side, indicating a change in the original denomination. The stamp has standard perforations on all four edges, which appear relatively intact though somewhat uneven. A significant black pen stroke or postal cancellation mark diagonally crosses the upper right portion of the face, signifying it has been used. The physical condition shows signs of aging, including overall discoloration, tonal spotting, and potential thinning of the paper consistent with postal use and long-term storage. The printing quality shows the intricate line-engraving style typical of colonial stamps from this era. Such stamps were often printed by the Mint in Lisbon or by international security printers like Waterlow & Sons for use in Portuguese colonial territories.