Mauritius 'Post Paid' 2d Blue

Mauritius · 1848 · 2d (Two Pence)

This stamp features a left-facing profile of Queen Victoria, engraved by Joseph Osmond Barnard. The inscription reads 'POST PAID' instead of the 'POST OFFICE' found on the legendary 1847 issue. The design is considered primitive, engraved locally on a copper plate, giving each stamp unique characteristics.

Issued one year after the famous 'Post Office' issue, this 'Post Paid' printing was the second stamp series from Mauritius, a British colony. These early colonial issues are cornerstones of classic philately and represent some of the most sought-after stamps in the world.