Queen Victoria "Lapirot" Issue
Mauritius · 1859 · 2 Pence
This stamp features a seated portrait of Queen Victoria, based on a painting by Franz Xaver Winterhalter. The design, engraved by Jules Lapirot, is known for its somewhat crude execution, earning it the nickname "Lapirot" issue. The inscription reads "MAURITIUS" at the top and the denomination "TWO PENCE" at the bottom.
Issued during the British colonial period, this stamp replaced an earlier lithographed version. Its primitive engraving style makes it a distinctive and classic issue from Mauritius, a territory famous for its early and rare stamps.
Printing Method
Engraved
Catalog Numbers
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View on Wikimedia CommonsEstimated Values by Condition
Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults
Well centered, fresh colors
Nicely centered, minor flaws
Average centering, acceptable
Off-center or visible wear
Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.