Mauritius "Post Office" 2d Blue

Mauritius · 1847 · 2d (Two Pence)

This stamp features a left-facing profile of Queen Victoria, based on the 1838 'City' medal by William Wyon. The inscription reads 'POST OFFICE' along the left panel, a feature that was changed to 'POST PAID' in subsequent issues, making these originals exceptionally rare. The design was locally engraved by Joseph Osmond Barnard on a small copper plate.

Issued under British colonial rule, the Mauritius "Post Office" stamps were the first stamps issued in any part of the British Empire outside of Great Britain itself. They were created for use on invitations to a Government House ball hosted by the Governor's wife, Lady Gomm.