Mauritius 'Post Office' Issue

Mauritius · 1847 · 1d / 2d

The first stamps issued by the British colony of Mauritius, featuring a profile of Queen Victoria. The design is notable for its primitive engraving and the inscription 'POST OFFICE' along the left panel, which was changed to 'POST PAID' on subsequent printings. These stamps were intended for local use, primarily for invitations to a ball hosted by the Governor's wife.

Issued in 1847, these were the first stamps produced in any British colony and are among the most famous and valuable stamps in the world. Their creation followed just seven years after Great Britain's Penny Black, marking a significant milestone in the global spread of the postal system.