British South Africa Company Stamps
The British South Africa Company administered territories in Southern Africa, primarily encompassing modern-day Zimbabwe (then Southern Rhodesia) and Zambia (then Northern Rhodesia). These regions operated under a unique charter granted by the British Crown, leading to distinct postal administrations that often mirrored those of other British colonies, though under corporate control rather than direct imperial rule.
- Issued stamps
- 1892–1917
- Region
- Africa, Southern Africa
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
History and background
Stamps issued during this period typically feature the reigning British monarch and are denominated in British currency, reflecting the strong administrative and linguistic ties to the United Kingdom. The postal history of these territories is marked by administrative transitions as the Company's rule eventually gave way to direct Crown Colony status and subsequent independence for the constituent nations.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA COMPANY
- RHODESIA
How to identify them
- Look for the inscription 'BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA COMPANY' or 'RHODESIA'.
- Stamps typically feature portraits of British monarchs (Victoria, Edward VII, George V) or the Company's coat of arms.
- Denominations are in British currency (pence, shillings, pounds).
Popular series
-
Queen Victoria 'Arms' Issue
1892-1896
The first definitive series featuring the Company's coat of arms and a portrait of Queen Victoria.
-
Queen Victoria 'Rhodesia' Overprints
1896-1897
Stamps of Cape of Good Hope overprinted 'BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA COMPANY' and 'RHODESIA'.
-
King Edward VII Definitives
1905-1909
Definitive series featuring the portrait of King Edward VII, often with the 'Rhodesia' inscription.
-
King George V Definitives
1910-1917
The final definitive series issued under Company administration, featuring King George V.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- £1–£10
- Scarce stamps
- £100–£5,000+
Common stamps are readily available. Higher values, especially those with good centering, original gum, or on cover, can fetch significant prices. Errors and varieties are particularly sought after.
Catalogs. British South Africa Company stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about British South Africa Company stamps
British South Africa Company stamps were issued by the British South Africa Company, a chartered company that administered territories in Southern Africa (modern-day Zimbabwe and Zambia) from 1892 to 1917. These stamps were used for postal services within these regions under corporate, rather than direct imperial, rule.
The value of British South Africa Company stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few pounds, while rare stamps, particularly high denominations, errors, or those in pristine condition or on historical covers, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical significance greatly influence their value.
British South Africa Company stamps are identifiable by inscriptions such as 'BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA COMPANY' or 'RHODESIA', often featuring portraits of British monarchs (Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, King George V) or the Company's coat of arms. Denominations are in British currency. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
British South Africa Company stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Stanley Gibbons (particularly the Commonwealth & British Empire catalogs), Scott, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for collectors.
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