South African Republic Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About South African Republic (ZAR) Stamps
The South African Republic, historically encompassing the territory that became modern South Africa, is situated in Southern Africa. Its postal history is complex, marked by periods of British colonial administration, the existence of independent Boer republics, and eventual union, leading to significant transitions in postal authority and currency. Stamps from this era often feature Dutch or English inscriptions, reflecting the dominant European languages, and the region's postal system evolved through various administrative phases before the establishment of the Union of South Africa.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1870 – 1901
- Languages:
- Dutch, English
- Currency:
- ZAR
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Stamp Catalogs
South African Republic (ZAR) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular South African Republic (ZAR) Stamp Series
First Issues (Coat of Arms) (1870-1877)
The inaugural stamps featuring the Republic's coat of arms, often imperforate or roughly perforated.
Queen Victoria Overprints (1877-1880)
Stamps of the South African Republic overprinted 'V.R. TRANSVAAL' during the first British annexation.
Second Republic Issues (1882-1896)
New definitive issues after the restoration of the Republic, again featuring the coat of arms, with various printings and watermarks.
South African Republic (ZAR) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue, watermark, perforation, and overprints. Early imperforate issues and rare errors or provisional overprints command the highest prices. Used stamps are often more common than mint.
How to Identify South African Republic (ZAR) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying South African Republic (ZAR) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'ZUID AFRIKAANSCHE REPUBLIEK' or 'SOUTH AFRICAN REPUBLIC' inscriptions.
- 2 Many stamps feature the Republic's coat of arms (eagle, lion, wagon, anchor).
- 3 Check for 'V.R. TRANSVAAL' overprints from the British annexation period.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are South African Republic stamps?
South African Republic (ZAR) stamps are postage stamps issued by the independent Boer republic in Southern Africa, known as the Transvaal, between 1870 and 1901. They reflect the region's complex political history, including periods of self-governance and British annexation.
Are South African Republic stamps valuable?
Some South African Republic stamps can be quite valuable, especially early issues, rare errors, specific overprints, or stamps in pristine condition. Common issues are generally affordable, but rare varieties can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical significance greatly influence their worth.
How can I identify South African Republic stamps?
To identify South African Republic stamps, look for inscriptions like 'ZUID AFRIKAANSCHE REPUBLIEK' or 'SOUTH AFRICAN REPUBLIC', often accompanied by the Republic's coat of arms. Pay attention to watermarks, perforations, and any overprints (e.g., 'V.R. TRANSVAAL'). Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to catalog entries and learn more about its specific characteristics.
Which catalogs list South African Republic stamps?
South African Republic stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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