Basutoland Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Basutoland Stamps
Basutoland, now the independent nation of Lesotho, was a British High Commission Territory located in Southern Africa, entirely surrounded by the Republic of South Africa. Its postal history is characterized by issues produced under British colonial administration, often featuring the reigning monarch and reflecting its status as a protectorate. Stamps typically bore inscriptions in English, reflecting the official language of the colonial power, alongside the local Sesotho language. The territory transitioned to independence in 1966, marking a significant shift in its postal authority and subsequent stamp issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1933 – 1954
- Languages:
- English, Sesotho
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Basutoland stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Basutoland Stamp Series
King George V Pictorials (1933)
The first definitive series for Basutoland, featuring local scenes and King George V.
King George VI Definitives (1938-1952)
A long-running series depicting King George VI and various Basutoland landscapes and cultural elements.
Queen Elizabeth II Definitives (1954)
The initial definitive series featuring Queen Elizabeth II, marking the beginning of her reign on Basutoland stamps.
Basutoland Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Basutoland stamps are generally affordable, especially used. Mint condition sets and certain higher values, particularly from the early pictorial issues, can command higher prices. Errors or varieties are rare and significantly increase value.
How to Identify Basutoland Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Basutoland stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'BASUTOLAND' clearly printed on the stamp.
- 2 Stamps typically feature portraits of the reigning British monarch (George V, George VI, Elizabeth II) alongside local imagery.
- 3 The currency denomination will be in British pounds, shillings, and pence (e.g., '1d', '1/-', '£1').
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Basutoland stamps?
Basutoland stamps are postage stamps issued by the British High Commission Territory of Basutoland, located in Southern Africa, from 1933 until its independence as Lesotho in 1966. These stamps reflect its colonial status, often featuring British monarchs and local scenes.
Are Basutoland stamps valuable?
The value of Basutoland stamps varies. Many common issues are quite affordable, ranging from $0.50 to $10. However, complete sets in mint condition, higher denominations, and specific early pictorial issues or any known errors can be more valuable, potentially fetching $50 to over $500.
How can I identify Basutoland stamps?
To identify Basutoland stamps, look for the inscription 'BASUTOLAND' on the stamp. They typically feature portraits of British monarchs (King George V, King George VI, or Queen Elizabeth II) and often depict local landscapes, wildlife, or cultural elements. You can also use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp to get instant identification and information.
Which catalogs list Basutoland stamps?
Basutoland stamps are well-documented in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them listed in the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalog, the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, and the Michel catalog.
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