German South West Africa Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German South West Africa Stamps
German South West Africa, located in southwestern Africa, was a German colony established in the late 19th century. The postal system operated under German administration until its occupation by South African forces during World War I, leading to a transition in postal control. Stamps issued during the colonial period prominently feature German inscriptions and denominations, often reflecting the Reich's authority. The territory's postal history is marked by the shift from German imperial issues to subsequent South African administration, reflecting significant geopolitical changes.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1897 – 1906
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- MKM
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German South West Africa stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German South West Africa Stamp Series
Yacht Issue (Hohenzollern Yacht) (1900-1906)
The definitive series featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern', common to all German colonies, overprinted with 'Deutsch-Südwestafrika'.
German Empire Stamps with Overprint (1897-1900)
Early issues consisting of German Empire stamps (Reichspost) overprinted 'Deutsch-Südwestafrika' and sometimes new denominations.
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German South West Africa Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Early overprinted issues and higher denominations of the Yacht series tend to be more valuable. Mint never hinged stamps command higher prices.
How to Identify German South West Africa Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German South West Africa stamps:
- 1 Look for the overprint 'Deutsch-Südwestafrika' on German Empire stamps or the 'Yacht' design.
- 2 Examine the watermark (usually lozenges or rhomboids for early issues, then cross and circles for later Yacht issues) and perforation.
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Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German South West Africa stamps?
German South West Africa stamps are postage stamps issued for the German colony of German South West Africa (present-day Namibia) between 1897 and 1906. They primarily consist of German Empire stamps overprinted with the colony's name and a definitive series featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'.
Are German South West Africa stamps valuable?
The value of German South West Africa stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare varieties, errors, high denominations, or exceptionally well-preserved examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Factors like condition, specific overprint, and cancellation significantly impact value.
How can I identify German South West Africa stamps?
To identify German South West Africa stamps, look for the 'Deutsch-Südwestafrika' overprint on German Empire stamps or the distinctive 'Yacht' design. Pay attention to the denomination, colors, and any specific watermarks or perforations. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to catalog entries and learn more about its specifics.
Which catalogs list German South West Africa stamps?
German South West Africa stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Germany and Colonies section), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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