A Barbados high value from the classic pre-decimal era
After six years of using ½d to 4d imperforate adhesives distinguished by ink colours rather than printed values, the colony’s mail users had first sight of a 1s value; still imperforate when first issued, in 1858. It carried the name ‘BARBADOS’ in a curve at its head, and the value ‘ONE SHILLING’ in a straight label at the foot of the stamp. The central design remained unaltered, described in official Post Office documents as:
The figure of Britannia seated on bales of merchandise, her right hand holding a spear, and her left arm resting on a shield charged with
