A rare unused Finnish 1845 20k rose envelope was among the star lots of a postage stamp sale at Cherrystone Auctions on August 9, achieving $25,000.
 The coat of arms at the bottom left reads 'Porto Stempo' - German for 'Postage Stamp' |
The lot predates the first adhesive Finnish stamp by 11 years.
It was issued while the country was under the control of the Russian empire and known as the Grand Duchy of Finland.
Very few are known in complete and unused condition, with this example described as being in an excellent state.
You can check out our incredible postage stamp selection here.
Please sign up to our free newsletter to receive exciting news about postage stamp auctions.
