What does Mauritius Post Office Stamp Insurance Cover?

The Mauritius Post Office stamps are among the most revered and sought-after treasures in philatelic history. Issued in 1847, these legendary stamps—comprising the 1d Red and 2d Blue denominations—were the first postage stamps released in any British colony outside of Great Britain. Their rarity, age, and storied background have made them icons within elite philatelic circles, commanding record-breaking prices at auction and serving as the centrepiece of many prestigious collections. What makes these stamps especially remarkable is the famous misprint of the words "Post Office" instead of the later corrected "Post Paid." Only a handful of original examples remain in existence today, each carefully documented and fiercely protected. For philatelists, owning a Mauritius Post Office stamp is not merely about rarity—it represents a tangible connection to the early evolution of global postage and the craftsmanship of 19th-century printing.

These stamps were printed by Joseph Osmond Barnard, a local engraver in Port Louis, and distributed on invitations to a governor’s ball—adding an almost mythical layer of exclusivity to their origin. Their historical significance, coupled with their extreme scarcity, has earned them an almost legendary status within the world of philately.

Key Highlights from the Mauritius Post Office Stamp Legacy:
Mauritius 1d Red “Post Office” (1847):
Printed in vermilion and featuring the profile of Queen Victoria, the 1d Red was primarily used for local letters. It is one of the most celebrated and valuable stamps in existence, highly coveted by seasoned philatelists and museum collections alike.

Mauritius 2d Blue “Post Office” (1847):
Slightly rarer than its red counterpart, the 2d Blue was used for letters bound for international destinations. With its distinctive deep blue shade and storied provenance, it remains a pinnacle of philatelic achievement.

“Bordeaux Cover” (1847):
One of the most famous philatelic items in the world, this envelope features both the 1d Red and 2d Blue “Post Office” stamps side-by-side. Its discovery and subsequent sale marked a defining moment in stamp collecting history.

The Mauritius Post Office stamps continue to captivate philatelists, historians, and collectors with their elegance, mystique, and enduring legacy. These are not just stamps—they are historical artefacts, encapsulating the spirit of early colonial communication and the origins of international mail.

Our bespoke insurance ensures your philatelic rarities—like the Mauritius Post Office stamps—are fully protected. From loss and theft to accidental damage, we offer tailored cover to safeguard your collection's integrity, rarity, and value for generations to come.

What else we cover

We offer extensive coverage for items across different categories, all within a single policy.