Blue Penny Museum
Port Louis
The Blue Penny Museum, located at the Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis, Mauritius, is dedicated to the island's history and art. Opened in November 2001, it houses prestigious collections including the renowned 1847 Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps, which are among the rarest and most valuable stamps worldwide. These stamps were repatriated to Mauritius in 1993 after nearly 150 years abroad, purchased by a consortium led by The Mauritius Commercial Bank. To preserve these delicate philatelic treasures, the original stamps are illuminated only briefly each hour, with replicas displayed otherwise. The museum also features the original statue of Paul and Virginia, created in 1881 by the sculptor Prosper d'Épinay, symbolizing a famous local literary tale. The museum's design emphasizes quality and interpretive aids, offering visitors an immersive experience into Mauritius' cultural and historical heritage. It stands out as a must-visit for those interested in the island's unique colonial and artistic legacy.
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Tip: Visit the museum from Monday to Saturday between 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., noting that it is closed on Sundays and public holidays. The original Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps are displayed only for 10 minutes at 15 minutes past each opening hour to protect them from damage, so plan your visit accordingly. Photography is allowed except in the stamps room. Consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues, and take advantage of discounted entry fees for residents, children, and students. Avoid bringing food or drinks inside the museum to respect the preservation policies.
Interesting facts
- •The 1847 Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps are among the rarest and most valuable stamps globally.
- •The stamps were bought for $2,000,000 in 1993 and returned to Mauritius after nearly 150 years abroad.
- •The original stamps are only illuminated for 10 minutes each hour to preserve them.
- •The museum houses the original statue of Paul and Virginia by Prosper d'Épinay, created in 1881.
History
The Blue Penny Museum was established in 2001 to preserve and showcase Mauritius' cultural heritage.
Its centerpiece, the 1847 Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps, were acquired and repatriated in 1993 by a consortium led by The Mauritius Commercial Bank.
These stamps represent some of the earliest colonial postage stamps issued worldwide.
Over the years, the museum has become a cultural landmark, emphasizing the island's colonial history and artistic achievements, including housing the original 1881 statue of Paul and Virginia by Prosper d'Épinay.
Place Guide
Post Office Stamps Room1847
This room displays the original 1847 Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps, which are only illuminated for 10 minutes every hour to protect their delicate condition. Visitors mostly see high-quality replicas during other times.
Paul and Virginia Statue1881
The museum houses the original statue of Paul and Virginia, sculpted in 1881 by Prosper d'Épinay. The statue represents the famous characters from a local romantic novel symbolizing love and tragedy.
Contact
Phone: 210 9204
