Issued in 1946 by Portuguese India, this 1 real stamp belongs to the “Historical Portraits” series and commemorates Saint Francis Xavier (1506–1552), one of the most prominent Jesuit missionaries and a central figure in the Christianization of Asia. Designed by Alberto de Sousa and printed by Litografia Nacional S.A. in Porto, the issue was produced by offset printing in black and grey tones, giving the portrait a striking contrast and solemn appearance. Measuring standard definitive format, perforated 11½, the stamp depicts the saint in half-length, holding a crucifix, with his name “S. Francisco Xavier” inscribed above. Catalogued as Michel PT-IN 431, Yvert et Tellier PT-IN 398, Stanley Gibbons PT-IN 555, Afinsa PT-IN 376, and Scott PT-IN 464, this issue is part of a series honoring historical personalities significant to Portuguese heritage in Asia. As a daily-use definitive, it circulated widely in Goa, Daman, Diu, and other enclaves of Portuguese India, serving as both a functional postal item and a reminder of the enduring influence of missionary history. Collectors value this stamp for its religious iconography, colonial context, and strong design, which together make it a culturally meaningful collectible from the mid-20th century. Condition: Used, with postmark, intact perforations, design remains clear with natural wear from postal circulation. Comparable circulated examples of this issue typically achieve between $10 and $25 at auction, with premiums for well-centered and lightly cancelled pieces.