Mauritius "Post Office" One Penny Red

Mauritius · 1847 · 1 Penny

This stamp, known as the "Post Office" issue, features a left-facing profile portrait of Queen Victoria. The inscription "POST OFFICE" appears on the left panel, a feature that was corrected to "POST PAID" on subsequent printings, contributing to its fame and rarity. It was locally designed and engraved by Joseph Osmond Barnard.

Issued under British colonial rule, these were the first stamps issued in any British colony. They were commissioned by the Governor's wife for invitations to a society ball, making them one of the most famous and sought-after issues in all of philately.