South West Africa Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About South West Africa Stamps
South West Africa, located in Southern Africa, was administered by the Union of South Africa following the dissolution of German colonial rule after World War I. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to South Africa, with stamps often denominated in South African currency and frequently featuring bilingual inscriptions, primarily English and Afrikaans, reflecting the dominant administrative languages. The territory's status evolved through League of Nations mandates and later United Nations trusteeship, leading to a complex period of postal transition until its independence as Namibia in 1990.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Africa
- Subregion:
- Southern Africa
- Issuing period:
- 1923 – 1990
- Languages:
- English, Afrikaans, German
- Currency:
- ZAR
- Parent issuer:
- South Africa
Stamp Catalogs
South West Africa stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular South West Africa Stamp Series
Pictorials (1923-1930s)
Early issues often depicting local wildlife, landscapes, and indigenous people, frequently overprinted 'SOUTH WEST AFRICA' or bilingual 'SUIDWES AFRIKA'.
King George V & VI Issues (1927-1952)
Stamps featuring portraits of British monarchs, often sharing designs with South African issues but with distinct 'South West Africa' inscriptions.
Definitives (1954-1989)
A long-running series of definitive stamps featuring diverse themes such as flora, fauna, industry, and cultural aspects, reflecting the territory's development.
South West Africa Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common South West Africa stamps are generally affordable. Rarer issues include early overprints, specific varieties, and high-value definitives, especially those in fine used or mint condition. Errors and scarce cancellations can also command higher prices.
How to Identify South West Africa Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying South West Africa stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'SOUTH WEST AFRICA' or the bilingual 'SUIDWES AFRIKA' / 'SOUTH WEST AFRICA'.
- 2 Many stamps are overprinted on issues originally intended for South Africa or Great Britain.
- 3 Denominations are typically in South African currency (pence, shillings, cents, rand).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are South West Africa stamps?
South West Africa stamps were issued for the territory administered by South Africa from 1923 until its independence as Namibia in 1990. They reflect a unique blend of South African postal influence and distinct territorial identity, often featuring bilingual inscriptions and local themes.
Are South West Africa stamps valuable?
The value of South West Africa stamps varies significantly. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from under a dollar to a few dollars. However, early overprints, specific varieties, high-value definitives, and stamps in pristine condition can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How can I identify South West Africa stamps?
To identify South West Africa stamps, look for the clear inscriptions 'SOUTH WEST AFRICA' or 'SUIDWES AFRIKA'. Many early issues are overprints on South African or British stamps. Pay attention to the currency (pence, shillings, cents, rand) and the design motifs, which often include local wildlife, landscapes, or portraits of British monarchs. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized catalogs.
Which catalogs list South West Africa stamps?
South West Africa stamps are comprehensively listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott (under South West Africa), Michel (under Südwestafrika), and Stanley Gibbons (under South West Africa). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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