Mauritius year 1950/1980 Lot MNH/ Used stamps

Mauritius has a fascinating history when it comes to postage stamps. Let’s explore some key points:

The period between 1950 and 1980 was a transformative era for Mauritius, transitioning from a British Crown Colony to an independent nation (1968). This is reflected in the philately, which shifted from classic royal portraits to vibrant thematic designs celebrating the island’s unique flora, fauna, and marine life.

1. The Colonial Definitives (1950–1967)

These sets are characterized by their “primitive” but colorful engravings, featuring local scenes alongside the reigning British monarch.

2. Independence & Early Republic (1968–1980)

Independence on March 12, 1968, brought a surge of commemorative issues.

• Independence Issue (1968): A set of six stamps (Scott #326–331) featuring the new national flag and the Coat of Arms (which includes the extinct Dodo and a Sambar Deer).
• Marine Life Series (1969): This is one of the most beautiful sets of the era. It consists of 18 values depicting tropical fish, shells, and crustaceans found in Mauritian reefs.
• The “Old and New” Port Louis (1970): A 5-stamp set and souvenir sheet contrasting historical and modern views of the capital city. One stamp features the famous 1847 “Blue Penny” on its design.
• Tourism & Transport (1970s): Look for sets featuring Postal Ships (1976), Air Mauritius (1977), and the History of the Sugar Industry (1969).

3. Significant Thematics

If you have a collection from this period, you will notice three dominant themes:

1. The Dodo: As a national symbol, the Dodo appears frequently, most notably in the 1968 Independence Booklet and various bird-themed commemoratives.
2. Flora: The Botanical Gardens (Pamplemousses) were honored in 1980 with a stunning souvenir sheet featuring rare lilies and palm trees.
3. Mahatma Gandhi: To honor the strong cultural ties with India, Mauritius issued several stamps for Gandhi’s birth centenary (1969).