Mauritius post office

The Mauritius Post Office building in Port Louis is a historic and philatelic landmark, famous for the 1847 'Post Office' stamps, among the rarest in the world.

About this subject

The Mauritius Post Office building, located in the capital Port Louis, is one of the island's landmarks. Built originally in the 19th century, its colonial architecture houses the country's postal administration. The building gained worldwide fame due to the stamps issued in 1847, known as 'Post Office' stamps because of a printing error that substituted 'Post Paid' with 'Post Office'. These stamps, one ½ penny blue and one 1 penny red, are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. It is estimated that fewer than 30 known copies of each exist, with auction prices reaching millions of dollars.

Mauritius's postal history dates back to the British colonial period. The first official correspondence was recorded in 1772, but stamps only appeared in 1847, driven by the need for prepaid postage. The 'Post Office' error was corrected in later issues, but the first stamps became legendary. The Post Office building, though rebuilt over time, retains its historic facade and houses a philatelic museum with exhibits on the island's postal evolution.

Mauritius is an important destination for philatelists, not only for the 'Post Office' stamps but also for other colonial and modern issues. The Post Office building is frequently visited by tourists interested in philately and local history. Its privileged location in central Port Louis, near the harbor and the central market, makes it easily accessible. While the museum is small, it offers explanatory panels and replicas of the famous stamps, as the originals are in private collections or institutions like the British Museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the value of the Mauritius 'Post Office' stamps?

The Mauritius 'Post Office' stamps are among the rarest and most valuable in the world. A copy of the ½ penny blue stamp sold for over US$1 million, while the 1 penny red reaches similar amounts. Their rarity and historical error drive the price.

What caused the 'Post Office' error on the 1847 stamps?

The error occurred during the printing of Mauritius's first stamps. The inscription was supposed to read 'Post Paid' (paid), but the engraver mistakenly wrote 'Post Office' (post office). Only 500 copies of each denomination (½ penny and 1 penny) were issued before the correction.

Where can I see the original 'Post Office' stamps?

Most original copies are in private collections or museums such as the British Museum in London and the Royal Postal Museum in Stockholm. In Mauritius, the Post Office museum displays replicas and explanatory panels.