150th Anniversary of First Mexican Stamp Sheet

This month's featured new item is this gorgeous sheet celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first Mexican stamp sheet. The labelled sheet is beautifully colored and shows 32 values. It is available from County Stamp Center with free shipping at a special price of only $64.14. Click the post title to order.

The postal system of Mexico developed from a system of messengers established by the Aztecs, according to Wikipedia. Hernando Cortes continued using the system after his 1521 conquest of the Aztecs until postal operations were ceded to the nobility in 1579. In 1765 the Spanish crown nationalized the postal service.

Thirty-five years after achieving independence from Spain, Mexico issued its first postage stamps on August 1, 1856. The five values depicted patriot Miguel Hidalgo, a priest, who initiated the fight for independence in 1810. Using his small town pulpit, he rallied the peasants against the corrupt government. Hildalgo was captured and beheaded for his efforts, his head displayed in Guanajuato as a warning to insurgents until independence was won in 1821. With other leaders of the revolution, Hidalgo is buried at the Rotunda of Illustrious Men in Mexico City and is honored as the Father of the Mexican Nation and Liberator of Mexico. His portrait was selected to grace Mexico's 150th anniversary sheet.

Visit the County Stamp Center website to view all the new December issues. And don't miss our 2006 best sellers. While you're at our website, make sure you sign up to receive our e-mail newsletter. It couldn't be easier, just enter your name and e-mail address in the space on the right sidebar. Each month we'll let you know about featured items, special sales, contests and other things you won't want to miss. Come to County Stamp Center for all your philatelic needs.