Vryburg Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Vryburg Stamps
Vryburg, located in what is now the North West Province of South Africa, was historically a significant town in the late 19th-century Boer republics. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the administration of the South African Republic (ZAR) and later the Cape Colony, reflecting the complex political landscape of Southern Africa. Stamps issued for Vryburg during its independent period or subsequent incorporation primarily feature Afrikaans and English, mirroring the dominant languages of the region. The area's postal administration transitioned through various British colonial and Union of South Africa phases, marking distinct periods in its philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1884 – 1885
- Languages:
- Afrikaans, English, Dutch
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- Cape of Good Hope
Stamp Catalogs
Vryburg stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Vryburg Stamp Series
Stellaland Overprints (1884)
Stamps of the Cape of Good Hope overprinted 'V.R.' and 'Stellaland' for use in the short-lived Republic of Stellaland, of which Vryburg was the capital.
British Bechuanaland Overprints (1885)
Following the annexation of Stellaland by Great Britain, Cape of Good Hope stamps were overprinted 'BRITISH BECHUANALAND' for use in the new territory, including Vryburg.
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Vryburg Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps issued for Vryburg, particularly the Stellaland overprints, are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and rarity. Condition plays a crucial role in value, with well-centered examples fetching premium prices. Later British Bechuanaland issues are more common but still hold philatelic interest.
How to Identify Vryburg Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Vryburg stamps:
- 1 Look for 'V.R.' and 'Stellaland' overprints on Cape of Good Hope stamps for the earliest issues.
- 2 Later issues will bear 'BRITISH BECHUANALAND' overprints.
- 3 Pay close attention to the type and clarity of the overprint, as forgeries and fakes exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Vryburg stamps?
Vryburg stamps refer to the postal issues used in the historical town of Vryburg, primarily during its time as the capital of the Republic of Stellaland (1884) and subsequently as part of British Bechuanaland (from 1885). These were typically stamps of the Cape of Good Hope overprinted with specific inscriptions.
Are Vryburg stamps valuable?
Yes, Vryburg stamps, especially the early Stellaland overprints, can be quite valuable due to their historical significance and limited production. Values can range from £5 for more common later issues to several thousands of pounds for rare, well-preserved Stellaland examples. Factors like condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations significantly impact their worth.
How can I identify Vryburg stamps?
To identify Vryburg stamps, look for Cape of Good Hope base stamps with distinct overprints. The earliest issues feature 'V.R.' and 'Stellaland' overprints. Later issues will have 'BRITISH BECHUANALAND' overprints. Always compare your stamps with known examples from reputable catalogs. For precise identification, consider using a stamp identifier app that can analyze your stamp's features.
Which catalogs list Vryburg stamps?
Vryburg stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values for the various Stellaland and British Bechuanaland issues used in the Vryburg area.
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