Rare Hungarian Stamps Appraisal

Hungarian 4 Filler Postage Stamp (Holy Crown of Hungary)

This item is a Hungarian 4 Filler postage stamp, featuring the prominent image of the Holy Crown of Hungary (Szent Korona). The stamp exhibits a deep purplish-brown or plum coloration, printed on what appears to be off-white or yellowish paper. The overall design is intricate, characterized by an ornate rectangular frame with decorative elements along its borders. At the top, the text "MAGYARORSZAG" is visible, identifying the issuing country as Hungary. Below this, the central motif is the Holy Crown, depicted with considerable detail, including its distinctive shape, cross on top, and ornamental jewels (though not individually colored). The crown is set against a background of radiating lines, suggesting a halo or importance. At the bottom of the stamp, the denomination "4 FILLER 4" is clearly displayed, with the number '4' appearing on both the left and right sides, flanking the word "FILLER." The stamp shows signs of having been used, indicated by the partial cancellation mark, which is black and appears to be a postmark, obscuring parts of the upper left and central areas of the crown design. The perforations around the edges are visible, suggesting it was part of a larger sheet. The condition appears to be fair to good for a used stamp of potentially considerable age, with some minor discoloration or foxing visible on the surrounding paper. The detailed engraving work points to a level of craftsmanship common in late 19th or early 20th-century philately. The style is classic for its era, focusing on national symbols. Without a clear date, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact issue year, but such designs were popular in the Austro-Hungarian Empire or early independent Hungary.