This early Japanese postal card belongs to the Koban series, introduced in 1873, and features the distinctive chrysanthemum crest symbolizing the Imperial Seal of Japan, integrated into the ornate frame surrounding the denomination "1 Sen" and the inscription "Japanese Post" in English. Printed in blue ink on cream paper, this example is a prepaid postal card (Scott UX1, Chan JP-PC-1), part of the first official postcard issue by the Japanese government following the establishment of a modern postal system under Maejima Hisoka. The card bears a clear circular cancellation from Takamatsu (高松), indicating origin from this port city in Kagawa Prefecture. The cancellation date suggests early use within the Meiji period, when the 1 sen postcard rate applied to domestic correspondence. The manuscript address and message are penned in traditional vertical script, consistent with period conventions. The writing and overall layout provide valuable insights into 19th-century postal practices, societal communication, and calligraphic styles in Japan. Despite minor corner wear and paper aging, this postal stationery item retains strong visual appeal with its sharp printing and culturally significant chrysanthemum mon emblem. Estimate "$70 – 90"
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