Salisbury Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Salisbury (Rhodesia) Stamps
Salisbury, a name historically associated with the territory now known as Zimbabwe, was a British colony in Southern Africa. Its postal history is deeply intertwined with the administration of the British South Africa Company and later as a self-governing British territory, leading to issues under Rhodesian authority. Stamps from this period predominantly featured English inscriptions, reflecting the dominant administrative language. The territory underwent significant political transitions, culminating in the independence of Zimbabwe, which fundamentally altered its philatelic identity.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1890 – 1964
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- Rhodesian Pound
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Salisbury (Rhodesia) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Salisbury (Rhodesia) Stamp Series
British South Africa Company Issues (1890-1923)
Early issues for Salisbury and Rhodesia under the administration of the British South Africa Company, often featuring Queen Victoria or Cecil Rhodes.
Rhodesia and Nyasaland Federation Issues (1954-1963)
Stamps issued during the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, which included Salisbury, depicting local scenes, industries, and royal portraits.
Southern Rhodesia Definitive Issues (1924-1953)
Definitive series for Southern Rhodesia, often featuring the 'Double Head' design (King George V and Queen Mary) or later monarchs.
Salisbury (Rhodesia) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Salisbury stamps, especially later definitives, are generally inexpensive. Early British South Africa Company issues, particularly high values, errors, or stamps on cover, can fetch significant prices. Condition is crucial.
How to Identify Salisbury (Rhodesia) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Salisbury (Rhodesia) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'RHODESIA' or 'BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA COMPANY' inscriptions, often alongside 'SALISBURY' postmarks if on cover.
- 2 Early issues often feature portraits of Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, King George V, or Cecil Rhodes.
- 3 Later issues (post-1923) will typically bear 'SOUTHERN RHODESIA' or 'RHODESIA AND NYASALAND' inscriptions.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Salisbury stamps?
Salisbury stamps refer to the postal issues used in Salisbury, the capital city of what was then Southern Rhodesia (now Harare, Zimbabwe). These stamps were primarily issued under the authority of the British South Africa Company and later as part of Southern Rhodesia and the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, reflecting British colonial administration.
Are Salisbury stamps valuable?
The value of Salisbury stamps varies widely. Common later issues are generally affordable, often in the range of a few dollars. However, early British South Africa Company issues, especially high denominations, rare varieties, errors, or stamps on original covers, can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition plays a significant role in determining value.
How can I identify Salisbury stamps?
Salisbury stamps can be identified by inscriptions such as 'RHODESIA,' 'BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA COMPANY,' 'SOUTHERN RHODESIA,' or 'RHODESIA AND NYASALAND.' Early issues often feature British monarchs or Cecil Rhodes. For precise identification and catalog numbers, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons is recommended.
Which catalogs list Salisbury stamps?
Salisbury stamps are comprehensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs. Collectors can find detailed information, including varieties and values, in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Rhodesia/Southern Rhodesia), the Michel Katalog (under Rhodesien), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue (under Rhodesia/Southern Rhodesia).
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