Mauritius 'Post Paid' 2d Blue

Mauritius · 1847 · 2d (Two Pence)

This stamp features a left-facing profile of Queen Victoria, engraved by Joseph Osmond Barnard. The design is notable for its primitive quality and the inscription 'POST PAID' on the left panel, which was a correction from the 'POST OFFICE' inscription on the first issue. This blue two-pence value was intended for use on letters to destinations outside of Mauritius.

Issued in 1847, this is one of the first two stamps issued by a British colonial post office, following Great Britain's Penny Black. The 'Post Paid' issue is part of the legendary 'Mauritius Post Office' series, among the most famous and valuable stamps in the world.