StampVault
Back to Catalog
Mauritius 1859 Dardenne Lithograph
very rarepre-1900

Mauritius 1859 Dardenne Lithograph

Mauritius · 1859 · 2d

This classic stamp features a seated figure of Britannia, a personification of Great Britain, holding a spear and shield. The design, known as the 'Dardenne Lithograph', is notable for its primitive execution by L. A. Dardenne. The inscription reads 'MAURITIUS' at the top and 'TWO PENCE' at the bottom.

Issued during the British colonial period, this stamp followed the legendary 'Post Office' issues and was one of the first locally produced general issues for the island. Its crude design reflects the limited printing capabilities available in the colony at the time.

Printing Method

Lithography

Catalog Numbers

sg40
scott17
michel13

Image: · License:

View on Wikimedia Commons

Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$1,500
Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$1,200
Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$900
Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$600
Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$300

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.