Issued in 1889, this 3 cent violet definitive from British North Borneo features the colony’s heraldic arms, prominently displaying a sailing vessel on waves beneath a rampant lion, symbolizing both maritime trade and colonial authority. Designed by T. Macdonald and printed by Blades, East and Blades using lithography, the stamp measures 22 x 25 mm, is perforated 14, and was issued without watermark. Catalogued as Michel NB 28, Scott NB 38, Yvert & Tellier NB 37, and Stanley Gibbons NB 39, this issue formed part of the definitive “Coat of Arms” series that underscored the identity of the British North Borneo Company’s governance in the late 19th century. Printed in violet, it reflects the high-quality colonial engravings of its era, balancing functionality as a revenue and postage stamp with a strong emblematic design. Widely circulated, surviving examples with clear cancellations remain highly collectible, representing the flourishing maritime trade routes of Borneo under British charter. Estimate "$40 – 70".