Mauritius "Post Paid" 2 Pence Blue, Dardenne Lithograph

Mauritius · 1859 · 2 Pence

This classic stamp features a seated figure of Britannia, a personification of Great Britain, holding a spear and shield. The design is framed by the inscriptions "MAURITIUS" at the top and "TWO PENCE" at the bottom, with "POST PAID" on the left. This issue, known as the Dardenne lithograph, is a later, locally produced version of the earlier Britannia designs.

Issued during the British colonial period, this stamp followed the legendary "Post Office" issue and was used for mail from the island. These locally printed stamps were necessary due to delays in receiving new supplies from Great Britain.