Mafeking Stamps
Mafeking, a town located in what is now South Africa, gained unique philatelic significance during the Second Boer War when it was besieged by Boer forces between 1899 and 1900. As a British colonial outpost, its stamps were issued under the authority of the Cape Colony, reflecting its status as a besieged British possession.
- Issued stamps
- 1900–1900
- Region
- Africa, Southern Africa
- Currency
- GBP
- Languages
- English
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Cape Colony
About Mafeking stamps
The stamps, often provisional issues known as the "Mafeking Besieged" issues, primarily feature English text, reflecting the administration of Colonel Robert Baden-Powell. This brief, dramatic period of self-governance resulted in some of the most famous emergency postal history items from the British Empire.
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.
- MAFEKING
- BESIEGED
How to identify Mafeking stamps
- Look for 'MAFEKING' or 'BESIEGED' overprints/surcharges.
- Many issues feature a portrait of Colonel Baden-Powell.
- Examine the paper and printing method, as many were crudely produced locally.
Popular series
-
Mafeking Besieged Issues
1900
Provisional stamps issued during the siege, often featuring portraits of Baden-Powell or local designs.
-
Baden-Powell Bicycle Post
1900
Stamps issued for a special bicycle postal service during the siege, often surcharged.
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
- £50–£200
- Scarce stamps
- £500–£10,000+
Mafeking stamps are highly sought after due to their historical significance and scarcity. Condition, specific variety, and cancellations significantly impact value. Forgeries are common, so expert authentication is crucial for high-value items.
Catalogs. Mafeking 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 Mafeking stamps
Mafeking stamps are provisional postage stamps issued during the Siege of Mafeking (October 1899 – May 1900) in the Second Boer War. They were created out of necessity by the besieged British garrison, led by Colonel Robert Baden-Powell, to maintain postal services.
Yes, Mafeking stamps are generally considered very valuable due to their unique historical context, limited production, and high demand from collectors. Prices can range from tens to many thousands of British Pounds, depending on the specific issue, condition, and authenticity. Forgeries are prevalent, so expert verification is essential for valuable pieces.
To identify Mafeking stamps, look for the town name 'MAFEKING' or 'BESIEGED' in the design or as an overprint. Many feature a portrait of Colonel Robert Baden-Powell. Due to their provisional nature, they often have distinctive, sometimes crude, printing. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Mafeking stamps are listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Stanley Gibbons (especially the Commonwealth & British Empire catalogs), Scott, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for the various issues.
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