Issued in Great Britain in 1840, this innovation proved that a stick-on label was a practical way to show postage payment, revolutionizing global mail systems forever.

The engraved portrait was based on a sketch of the Queen at age 15. This same youthful image remained on British stamps for the entirety of her 63-year reign.

Before 1840, the recipient typically had to pay upon delivery. This often led to people refusing letters, causing massive revenue losses for the postal service.

Fraudsters realized red cancellation marks could easily be washed off the dark background. The Penny Red was introduced in 1841 so secure black ink could be used instead.