Prior to 1877 Bulgaria was part of the Ottoman Empire but following a revolt and the intervention of Russia, the Treaty of Berlin of 1878 established a Principality north of the Balkan Mountains, under Turkish sovereignty, whilst in the south a semi-autonomous administration was granted to Eastern Roumelia. This was incorporated in Bulgaria in 1885.

The first principality was under Prince Alexander (April 24 – September 4, 1886).

The dates of issue are according to local computation based on the Julian or Gregorian Calendar in use at the time. After 1900 the difference was thirteen days. In Bulgaria the Gregorian Calendar was introduced in 1917.

The first issue was released May 1, 1879 on laid paper. Sheet watermark letters  E Z G P representing the printing works (State Printing Works St. Petersburg), drawn between symmetrical curved lines, forming a lozenge shaped pattern. Perf 14 ½ x 15. Designed by Y. Kirov.

There are eight in this first set: 5 c. black and orange, 5c. black and yellow, 10 c. black and green, 10c. black and deep green, 25 c. black and lilac, 25 c. black and purple, 50c c. black and blue, 1 f. black and red.

Bulgaria first issues: 1879 5c and 1879 1fr stamp