Mauritius Queen Victoria 'Post Paid' Issue

Mauritius · 1848 · 1d

This stamp features a left-facing portrait of Queen Victoria, based on the 1838 'City Medal' portrait by William Wyon. The design is inscribed 'POST PAID' at the top, 'MAURITIUS' at the bottom, and the denomination 'ONE PENNY' on the right. This is one of the earliest and most iconic stamps ever produced, known for its primitive yet charming engraving.

Issued just one year after the legendary 'Post Office' issue, the 'Post Paid' series was the first general issue for Mauritius. These stamps are among the most famous and sought-after in the world, representing the dawn of philately in the British Empire outside of Great Britain itself.