Reference estimate: $1.6 million
Mauritius Post Office value guide
What Is the Mauritius Post Office and Why Is It Valuable?
The Mauritius Post Office is a extremely rare stamp issued by Mauritius in 1847, with a reference estimate of $1.6 million in this guide. Apply that estimate only after confirming the exact variety, condition and authenticity.
The Mauritius 'Post Office' - Colonial Island Rarity was issued by Mauritius in 1847. Similar-looking issues can differ by paper, watermark, perforation, color, overprint or cancellation.
The Mauritius 'Post Office' stamps are among the world's rarest, featuring the famous inscription error 'Post Office' instead of 'Post Paid' on these early colonial issues.
Treat the values on this page as editorial reference estimates, not live quotes or guaranteed sale prices. A direct, dated comparable in the same condition is stronger evidence than a broad catalog range.
What Is the Estimated Mauritius Post Office Value?
This guide uses $1.6 million as a reference estimate. Its condition examples range from $800,000to $2,000,000+, but actual results depend on exact variety, authenticity, provenance, certification and sale context.
Market values for the Mauritius Post Office vary significantly based on condition, provenance, and certification. The premium for mint never-hinged examples reflects the extreme rarity of specimens that have survived in perfect condition since 1847.
These ranges require direct comparable evidence before use in a purchase, sale or insurance decision. Potentially valuable stamps should be authenticated by a recognized philatelic expertizing service.
Why Can the Mauritius Post Office Value Vary?
Exact variety, condition, authenticity and the quality of the comparable sale all change value. Important factors for this stamp include Extreme rarity - only 27 examples known, Famous inscription error creates mystique, Condition varies due to postal usage.
Value caveat: asking prices, catalog values and realized auction prices are different. Compare like with like and note the date, grade, certification and buyer's premium.
How Do I Identify an Authentic Mauritius Post Office?
Authentic Mauritius Post Office specimens feature specific characteristics including profile of queen victoria facing left. Professional authentication is essential for stamps of this value.
Profile of Queen Victoria facing left
Inscription 'Post Office' (error for 'Post Paid')
Mauritius colony name
Local engraving quality varies
Most examples show wear from postal use
Extremely limited surviving population
Authenticating the Mauritius Post Office requires expert knowledge and careful examination of multiple factors. Given its extreme value, professional authentication is absolutely essential before any purchase or sale.
Modern technology like StampSnap's recognition app can provide initial identification assistance, but for stamps of this caliber, consultation with certified philatelic experts and professional grading services is strongly recommended.
What Is the History of the Mauritius Post Office?
The Mauritius Post Office was issued in 1847 by Mauritius and has become one of the most sought-after stamps in philatelic history. Its historical significance and rarity make it a cornerstone piece for serious collectors.
The Mauritius Post Office holds a unique place in postal history. In September 1847, the wife of Mauritius Governor Sir William Gomm wanted stamps for invitations to a fancy ball. Local engraver Joseph Osmond Barnard created stamps but mistakenly inscribed 'Post Office' instead of 'Post Paid'. Only 500 of each denomination were printed, and most were used on ball invitations. Today, only 27 examples survive (14 of the 1d orange-red, 12 of the 2d deep blue, and 1 unused 1d), making them extraordinarily rare.Its creation in 1847 makes it not just a collectible item but a genuine historical artifact.
The circumstances surrounding its issue have become legendary in philatelic circles. This combination of rarity, historical importance, and compelling backstory contributes significantly to its exceptional market value.
Today, the Mauritius Post Office is recognized not only by stamp collectors but also by museums and cultural institutions as an important artifact of Mauritius's postal and cultural heritage.
Sources & References
- Scott Specialized Catalogue of United States Stamps & Covers - Amos Media Company
- Stanley Gibbons Stamp Catalogue - Stanley Gibbons Ltd.
- Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries - Siegel Auction Galleries
- Spink Auction Records - Spink and Son Ltd.
- Smithsonian National Postal Museum - Smithsonian Institution