mint stamp: Panhard & Levassor, 1895 (FR)

Stamp issue by Portuguese Post Office on the occasion of the 100 years of the automobile in Portugal. Date of issue: 1995.03.08.

First automobile in Portugal.

In 1895 the Earl of Avilez surprised the people of Lisbon and those along the roads to Santiago do Cacém, by riding the latest thing as a vehicle, among the Portuguese people.

It was a  Panhard & Levassor, equipped with a Daimler two cylinder V engine, 1290 cc and 3,75 bhp, which provoked reactions of disbelief  and terror.

It is said that one of his servants ran before the horseless coach, alerting people to put out all fires in order to avoid a possible explosion of the machine.

Nevertheless, this new locomotion way has raised a great enthusiasm and a large appeal among the Portuguese aristocracy and wealthy.

Source: Portuguese Post Office.

Maxicard: First automobile in Portugal: Panhard & Levassor, 1895 (FR)

Maxicard issue by Portuguese Post Office on the occasion of the 100 years of the automobile in Portugal. Date of issue: 1995.03.08.