Orange River Colony Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Orange River Colony Stamps
The Orange River Colony was a British colony situated in Southern Africa, established after the Second Boer War. Its postal history is defined by its status as a Crown Colony, succeeding the independent Orange Free State, and it was a member of the Universal Postal Union from 1907. Stamps issued during this period primarily feature English and sometimes Dutch inscriptions, reflecting the transition from Boer to British administration. The colony ceased to exist in 1910 upon the formation of the Union of South Africa, at which point its postal services were integrated into the new national system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1902 – 1910
- Languages:
- English, Dutch
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Orange River Colony stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Orange River Colony Stamp Series
King Edward VII Issues (1903-1909)
Stamps featuring the portrait of King Edward VII, often overprinted 'ORANGE RIVER COLONY' on Cape of Good Hope stamps or with new designs.
Overprinted Orange Free State Stamps (1902)
Initial issues consisting of stamps of the former Orange Free State overprinted 'V.R.I.' (Victoria Regina Imperatrix) or 'E.R.I.' (Edwardus Rex Imperator) and 'ORANGE RIVER COLONY'.
Pictorial Issues (1903-1909)
A series of stamps depicting local scenes and industries, such as the Bloemfontein Raadzaal and farming activities.
Orange River Colony Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common issues are readily available and inexpensive. Rarer varieties include errors, specific overprint types, and high-value definitives, especially in fine used or mint condition. Early overprints on Orange Free State stamps can also command higher prices.
How to Identify Orange River Colony Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Orange River Colony stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ORANGE RIVER COLONY' inscription, often in conjunction with 'POSTAGE & REVENUE'.
- 2 Identify the monarch's portrait (Queen Victoria or King Edward VII) or specific pictorial designs.
- 3 Check for overprints like 'V.R.I.' or 'E.R.I.' on earlier issues, indicating the transitional period.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Orange River Colony stamps?
Orange River Colony stamps were issued by the British colonial administration in Southern Africa between 1902 and 1910, following the Second Boer War. They replaced the stamps of the independent Orange Free State and were eventually superseded by stamps of the Union of South Africa.
Are Orange River Colony stamps valuable?
The value of Orange River Colony stamps varies. Many common issues are affordable, ranging from under a pound to around £10. However, certain rare varieties, such as specific overprints, errors, or high-denomination stamps in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, fetching hundreds of pounds or more.
How can I identify Orange River Colony stamps?
You can identify Orange River Colony stamps by looking for the explicit 'ORANGE RIVER COLONY' inscription. Early issues may also feature overprints like 'V.R.I.' or 'E.R.I.' on stamps originally from the Orange Free State. The Stamp Identifier app can help you quickly identify these and other stamps by simply scanning them with your phone's camera.
Which catalogs list Orange River Colony stamps?
Orange River Colony stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Stanley Gibbons (especially the Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalog), Scott, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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