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 inscription "POST PAID" appears at the top, with "MAURITIUS" below and the denomination "TWO PENCE" at the bottom. This particular issue is known as the Dardenne lithograph, named after the printer, and is a later printing from the original 1848 plates, showing significant plate wear.

Issued during the British colonial period, this stamp is a successor to the legendary "Post Office" issue. It reflects the growing postal needs of the island and the evolution of its stamp production from local engraving to lithography.