Cape of Good Hope Stamps
The Cape of Good Hope, located in Southern Africa, was a significant British Crown Colony whose postal history began under Dutch control before transitioning to British administration in the early 19th century. Stamps issued by the Cape Colony primarily featured English, although early issues sometimes included Dutch inscriptions reflecting its complex history.
- Issued stamps
- 1853–1902
- Region
- Africa, Southern Africa
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English, Dutch
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- United Kingdom
About Cape of Good Hope stamps
The colony was a founding member of the Universal Postal Union in 1875 and its postal system was eventually integrated into the Union of South Africa in 1910, leading to the cessation of distinct Cape issues.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Cape of Good Hope stamps
- Look for the distinctive triangular shape of the early issues (Cape Triangles).
- Examine watermarks (e.g., Crown CC, Crown CA) and perforations.
- Check for 'Woodblock' issues, identifiable by their crude printing and specific designs.
- Note the language of inscriptions, primarily English, but early issues may have Dutch elements.
Popular series
-
Triangular Stamps (Cape Triangles)
1853-1864
The iconic and highly sought-after triangular-shaped stamps, issued in various denominations and colors, featuring an allegorical figure of Hope.
-
Rectangular Issues
1864-1902
Later issues that adopted a more conventional rectangular format, often depicting Queen Victoria or local scenes, including surcharges and provisional issues.
-
Woodblock Issues
1861
Provisional issues printed from woodblocks due to a shortage of regular stamps, known for their crude appearance and rarity.
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
- £5–£50
- Scarce stamps
- £500–£50,000+
Common rectangular issues are generally affordable. The 'Cape Triangles' are highly valuable, especially in fine condition or with rare cancellations. The 'Woodblock' issues are exceptionally rare and command very high prices.
Catalogs. Cape of Good Hope 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 Cape of Good Hope stamps
Cape of Good Hope stamps are postage stamps issued by the British Crown Colony of the Cape of Good Hope in Southern Africa, from 1853 until its integration into the Union of South Africa in 1910. They are famous for their early triangular issues.
Yes, many Cape of Good Hope stamps are highly valuable. The iconic 'Cape Triangles' are particularly prized by collectors, with rare examples fetching tens of thousands of pounds. Even some later rectangular issues, especially those with errors, rare cancellations, or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable. Common, later issues are generally more affordable.
To identify Cape of Good Hope stamps, look for the distinctive triangular shape of the early issues, or the 'Cape of Good Hope' inscription on later rectangular stamps. Pay attention to watermarks, perforations, and the specific designs, which often feature allegorical figures or Queen Victoria. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Cape of Good Hope stamps are extensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, among others.
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