This Soviet Union commemorative stamp was issued in 1954 to mark the 100th anniversary of the heroic defense of Sevastopol (1854–1855) during the Crimean War. The design features the Monument to the Sunken Ships, erected in Sevastopol to honor the scuttling of Russian ships that blocked the harbor against the Anglo-French fleet. The frame bears the years 1854–1954, symbolizing the centenary, along with a patriotic inscription quoting Leo Tolstoy, who participated in the defense as a young officer. Denominated 40 kopeks, the stamp is an important piece of Cold War-era Soviet philately, blending history, patriotism, and naval commemoration. A key collectible for enthusiasts of Crimean War history, Russian naval monuments, and Soviet commemoratives.