Issued in 1949, this commemorative 1 centésimo de balboa stamp from the República de Panamá honors the pioneering scientists Pierre and Marie Curie. Bearing their portraits and the inscription “Lucha Contra el Cáncer” (“Fight Against Cancer”), the issue reflects Panama’s support for global medical research and the Curies’ discovery of radium and its role in cancer treatment. Printed by the American Bank Note Company in deep brown tones, the design combines fine engraving with ornate frame details typical of mid-20th-century Panamanian philately.