Description: This artifact is an authentic, recess-printed British colonial postage stamp from Cyprus, released as part of the definitive series celebrating the island’s rich historical landmarks. Printed in a striking ultramarine and grey-blue palette, the central vignette illustrates Kolossi Castle, a former Crusader stronghold located near the city of Limassol. Tall, slender Italian cypress trees stand on the left flank of the stone keep, while a small, stylized label reading "KOLOSSI CASTLE" is centered right beneath the architectural landscape. The top-left corner features the territory name "CYPRUS" rendered in an elegant, stylized art-deco typeface. Balancing the right-hand corner is an oval-framed portrait medallion showcasing King George VI facing three-quarters left in full military uniform. The base of the stamp frames the value "4 PIASTRES," anchored by large white Arabic numerals "4" positioned on both bottom corners.
Circa: 1938-1951
Condition: Used
Notes:
Kolossi Castle holds an immense historical pedigree, having served as the Grand Commandery of the Knights Templar and the Knights Hospitaller during the Middle Ages, where the world's oldest continuously produced wine, Commandaria, was originally named and manufactured.