Issued on December 1, 1924, this 10 yen violet stamp from Japan features a finely engraved portrait of Empress Jingū, a semi-legendary figure in early Japanese history known for her regency and military exploits. The intricate design includes a circular frame adorned with geometric patterns, imperial waves, and the chrysanthemum crest symbolizing the Japanese monarchy. Printed in deep violet using engraved intaglio printing on granite paper, the stamp includes watermark Type 4 with upward wavy lines and varies in perforation. The use of Empress Jingū in postal imagery during the Taishō era reflects both national pride and a revival of historical symbolism in Japan's state identity. This example bears a partial circular cancellation in black, indicative of commercial use, and displays minor hinge remnants and reinforcement on the reverse. It is catalogued as Michel JP 171, Scott JP 189, Yvert 185, Stanley Gibbons 225, and Sakura 210, and stands as one of the more visually and culturally significant high-denomination definitives of pre-war Japan. Estimate "$40 – 65"
4o