Ethiopia – Scott # 131, hinged

Description

Issued in 1928, Ethiopia Scott #131 is a definitive stamp from the Lion of Judah series, one of the most important and visually distinctive stamp issues of early Ethiopian philately. The Lion of Judah, a biblical symbol tied to the Solomonic dynasty, represented Emperor Haile Selassie and Ethiopia’s ancient imperial lineage.

The design features a powerful lion in profile, rendered in bold engraved lines within a decorative frame that combines traditional Ethiopian motifs with European printing style. The vivid contrast between the red central vignette and green border gives the stamp both authority and elegance, making it a standout among African classic issues.

With a denomination of ? centimes (as inscribed in Ge’ez and French), this stamp was intended for standard domestic and international postage, forming part of the backbone of Ethiopia’s postal system during the late 1920s.

This example is offered unused hinged, with original gum remaining and a light hinge mark, along with strong color and clean margins. A fine collectible for specialists in Ethiopia, African classics, and imperial-era postage.

Country: Ethiopia
Year of Issue: 1928
Scott Number: 131
Denomination: As inscribed
Condition: Unused hinged