Mauritius 'Post Office' Issue

Mauritius · 1847 · 2 Pence

This stamp, known as the 'Blue Penny', is one of the most famous and sought-after stamps in the world. It features a left-facing portrait of Queen Victoria and was locally engraved by Joseph Osmond Barnard. The inscription reads 'POST OFFICE' on the left panel, an error that was corrected to 'POST PAID' on subsequent issues, contributing to its fame.

Issued under British colonial rule, the 'Post Office' stamps were the first stamps issued in any British colony. They were commissioned by the wife of the Governor of Mauritius for invitations to a fancy dress ball.