Mauritius "Post Office" 1d Red
Mauritius · 1847 · 1d (One Penny)
This stamp features a left-facing profile of Queen Victoria, based on the 1840 Great Britain 'Penny Black'. The inscription reads "POST OFFICE" along the left panel, a detail that was changed to "POST PAID" in the subsequent issue, making these originals exceptionally rare. The stamp was printed locally in Port Louis from a single copper plate engraved by Joseph Osmond Barnard.
Issued under British colonial rule, the 'Post Office' stamps were created for use on invitations to a Government House ball hosted by the Governor's wife, Lady Gomm. They are among the first stamps issued in the British Empire outside of Great Britain itself.
Printing Method
Engraved
Catalog Numbers
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View on Wikimedia CommonsEstimated Values by Condition
Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults
Well centered, fresh colors
Nicely centered, minor flaws
Average centering, acceptable
Off-center or visible wear
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