The Second Study Paper from the RPSL

This scholarly work represents a definitive advancement in
Portuguese philately, born from the recent incorporation
of the historical archives of the Imprensa Nacional-Casa
da Moeda (INCM) into the National Archive Torre do
Tombo. By scrutinising previously unexamined primary
sources, including original ledger books, consignment
notes, and annual balance terms, the author reconstructs
the complete production cycle of the D. Maria II, D. Pedro
V, and early D. Luís I issues with unprecedented precision.

The study’s unique contribution lies in its empirical methodology.
Moving beyond the “accepted” numbers issued
for Portugal’s first postage stamps, the author traces the
path of paper reams from the warehouse to the finished
stamps delivered to the Post Office. Crucially, it accounts
for ‘refugo’ (waste) and incinerated stock, providing for
the first time the true quantities that reached the public.

Richly documented and rigorously researched, the work is
enriched by exclusive high-resolution colour photography
of original reproduction punches, matrices, and service
dies from the Mint House collection alongside rare philatelic
items from the Borja Freire issues. By correcting
long-standing data for the numbers of stamps issued,
and redefining issue dates through primary evidence,
this study provides a new, definitive foundation for the
specialised collector.