The first stamp issue of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg appeared in 1852. It bore the portrait of Grand Duke William III. This same William is found on many stamps of the Netherlands, because the duke was also king of that country. France had exerted much influence on Luxembourg in the past. The Commerce and Industry series is similar in design to its French counterpart. Some Luxembourg stamps are made with granite paper. This paper has fibers (usually red or blue silk) mixed into its pulp during manufacture. The fibers can be seen easily on the back of such stamps. Did you know Luxembourg is the only Grand Duchy in the world?