Postage stamps of Mauritius

Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is renowned in philatelic circles for its rich postal history and particularly for some of the world’s rarest and most famous stamps. The stamps of Mauritius reflect the country’s colonial past, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Here’s an overview of the key phases and highlights in Mauritian philately:

1. Colonial Period and Early Issues

First Stamps: The Famous “Post Office” Issues (1847)

  • The “Post Office” Issues:
    • Mauritius became the fifth country in the world to issue postage stamps, and its first stamps, known as the “Post Office” issues, were released in 1847. These stamps are legendary in philately due to their rarity and historical significance. They featured the profile of Queen Victoria and were inscribed with “Post Office” instead of the more common “Post Paid.” There were two denominations: a one-penny red-orange and a two-pence blue. The “Post Office” issues are among the most valuable stamps globally, with only a few known to exist.

“Post Paid” Issues (1848-1859)

  • Subsequent Early Issues:
    • Following the “Post Office” issues, Mauritius released the “Post Paid” series in 1848, correcting the inscription. These stamps also featured Queen Victoria and came in various denominations and colors. They were printed using a similar method to the “Post Office” stamps, and various printings (known as “early” and “late” impressions) have slight differences.
  • “Lapirot” and “Sherwin” Issues (1859-1862):
    • Named after their engravers, the “Lapirot” and “Sherwin” issues were released in the late 1850s. These continued to feature Queen Victoria but with different engravings and designs.

Later Victorian Issues (1860-1902)

  • Definitive Issues:
    • From the 1860s onwards, Mauritius continued to issue stamps depicting Queen Victoria, including the “Britannia” series and later definitive issues showing the monarch in different poses.
  • Postal Stationery:
    • Mauritius also produced a range of postal stationery items, including pre-paid envelopes and postcards, which were widely used.

2. Edwardian and George V Era (1902-1936)

  • Edward VII and George V Issues:
    • With the ascension of Edward VII in 1901, Mauritius issued stamps featuring the new king. These were followed by stamps of George V after 1910. The designs during these periods were similar to those used across the British Empire, often featuring the monarch’s profile.
  • Commemorative and Definitive Stamps:
    • During this era, Mauritius also issued stamps commemorating various events, including jubilees and exhibitions.

3. World War II and Post-War Period (1939-1968)

  • George VI and Early Elizabeth II Issues:
    • The stamps of George VI featured standard British colonial designs, including views of Mauritius and symbols of the British Empire. After Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne in 1952, new stamps were issued featuring her profile.
  • Commemoratives:
    • Mauritius issued commemorative stamps for significant events such as the coronation of Elizabeth II and various national events.

4. Independence and Modern Period (1968-Present)

Independence (1968)

  • First Stamps of Independent Mauritius:
    • Mauritius gained independence from the United Kingdom on March 12, 1968. The first stamps issued as an independent nation featured the new national symbols, including the flag and coat of arms.
  • Commemorative Issues:
    • Since independence, Mauritius has regularly issued stamps to commemorate important national and international events, notable Mauritian personalities, and cultural festivals.

Modern Themes and Innovations

  • Cultural and Natural Heritage:
    • Modern stamps often highlight Mauritius’s diverse culture, its rich natural heritage, including its unique flora and fauna, and its beautiful landscapes. The dodo, an extinct bird native to Mauritius, is a particularly popular theme.
  • Tourism and International Relations:
    • Stamps also promote Mauritius as a tourist destination and commemorate diplomatic relations with other countries.
  • Innovative Designs:
    • Recent issues have explored various formats and printing techniques, including miniature sheets, special commemorative sets, and thematic issues focusing on topics like conservation and technology.

5. Philatelic Collectibility and Interest

Rarity and Value

  • “Post Office” and Early Issues:
    • The “Post Office” issues are among the most famous and valuable stamps globally, fetching record prices at auctions. Early Mauritian stamps in general are highly prized by collectors.
  • Condition and Provenance:
    • The value of Mauritian stamps, as with others, depends on their condition, rarity, and historical context. Stamps with interesting postmarks, errors, or unique features are particularly collectible.

Philatelic Societies and Resources

  • Philatelic Societies:
    • Organizations like the Mauritius Philatelic Society offer resources for collectors, including information on the history and variations of Mauritian stamps.

Overview

The postage stamps of Mauritius offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history, from its early days as a British colony to its present status as an independent republic. The country’s stamps are known for their beautiful designs, rich history, and the iconic “Post Office” issues, which hold a legendary status in philately. For collectors, Mauritian stamps represent a unique and valuable collection, rich with history and beauty. Whether focusing on the early classic issues or the vibrant modern commemoratives, the stamps of Mauritius are a captivating area of study and collection.