The Kingdom of Spain was born with the marriage of Ferdinand and Isabella. The very same rulers who financed Columbus’ voyages of discovery in the late 1400s. Spain’s first stamps, issued in 1850, show a portrait of Isabella II who ruled Spain from 1833 to 1868. The queen was overthrown. 1868-69 brought the many issues of the Provisional government, some for Madrid and several for the provinces of Andalusia and others. In 1930, Spain became well-known among collectors for its infamous “Goya Nude” stamps, three issues showing the body of the Duchess of Alba in fine detail. Painted by Francisco de Goya, the stamps caused a sensation.