The history of the post and postage system is a fascinating journey that reflects the evolution of communication, trade, and governance across different civilizations and periods. From ancient methods of message delivery to the sophisticated postal services of today, this history encapsulates humanity’s need to connect over distances.
Postal services trace their origin to the necessity of maintaining communications between different parts of an empire. It enabled the emperor to keep track of all that was happening. Earlier the post was a privilege reserved for kings and emperors alone. Today it is at the service of the humblest citizen.
The foundations of modern postal systems began to take shape in the 16th and 17th centuries. In England, Henry VIII established the Royal Mail in 1516, initially intended to serve the monarchy and government. This service gradually expanded to include the public, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive postal system.
Royal Mail in 1516
In 1635, England established a public postal service, and by 1711, the British Post Office was formally created, setting the stage for more organized and regulated mail services. One of the most revolutionary changes was the introduction of the Penny Post in Britain in 1840, which standardized postage rates regardless of distance, and revolutionized mail services, making them accessible to the general public.
Spearheaded by Sir Rowland Hill, this reform standardized postal rates, making it possible to send a letter anywhere in the country for a penny. Hill also introduced the adhesive postage stamp, the famous Penny Black, which became the first prepaid postage system and a model for other countries.
Similarly, illustrious are the Post Office Mauritius stamps, issued by the British colony of Mauritius in 1847. These stamps, like the one-cent British Guiana, are celebrated for their rarity and historical importance. The stamps were engraved and printed locally by Joseph Osmond Barnard, a local watchmaker and engraver. The first issue comprised a one-penny orange-red and a two-pence deep blue, both bearing the inscription “Post Office” and the profile of Queen Victoria. The “Post Office” inscription on these stamps was soon replaced with “Post Paid,” but a small number of the original “Post Office” stamps had already been circulated. Their value is immense, with each stamp fetching millions at auction. They are considered jewels of philately, coveted by collectors and museums worldwide.
Among the myriad of postage stamps issued throughout history, the ‘One-Cent’ British Guiana stamp holds a unique and legendary status in the philatelic world. Issued in 1856 by the British colony of British Guiana (now Guyana), this stamp is renowned for its rarity and historical significance. Printed by the local newspaper, these provisional stamps were crudely produced on coloured paper. Over the years, the stamp changed hands multiple times, each transaction increasing its value astronomically over the years, with its most recent sale in 2014 fetching $9.5 million.
The 20th century saw technological advancements that transformed postal services dramatically. Airmail’s introduction significantly reduced delivery times, enabling cross-continental mail within days. Automated sorting systems and postal codes streamlined mail processing, boosting efficiency. The latter half of the century brought digital communication, challenging traditional postal services with email and the Internet, which reduced personal letter volumes but opened new opportunities.
Postal services have historically connected people, facilitated trade, and supported governance, aiding in the spread of ideas, news, and culture. They have contributed to economic development by supporting commerce and trade. In crises like wars or natural disasters, postal services have maintained essential communication lines, crucial for morale and support.
The history of postal systems reflects human ingenuity and the constant need for communication. Despite digital communication’s rise, postal services adapt, continuing to connect people and support global commerce, underscoring their enduring significance in human history.
