Mauritius 1847 'Post Office' 1d Red & 2d Blue

Mauritius · 1847 · 1d Red & 2d Blue

The Mauritius 'Post Office' issue features two stamps, a one-penny red-orange and a two-pence deep blue, both depicting the profile of Queen Victoria. The design was engraved locally by Joseph Osmond Barnard and is notable for the inscription 'POST OFFICE' on the left panel, which was changed to 'POST PAID' on subsequent printings. These stamps are among the most famous and sought-after rarities in the world.

Issued under British colonial rule, these were the first stamps issued in any British colony. They were created for use on invitations to a ball hosted by the Governor's wife, Lady Gomm, making them a legendary part of philatelic history.