The South African Post Office Philatelic Services is a department within the South African Post Office that is responsible for the production and distribution of postage stamps and other philatelic products. This service has been in operation for over a century and has become an important part of the country’s postal system.
History of South African Post Office Philatelic Services
The history of the South African Post Office Philatelic Services dates back to 1910 when the Union of South Africa was formed. The first stamps issued by the service were the King Edward VII stamps, which were used until 1923. Since then, the service has continuously produced stamps featuring important events, people, and landmarks in South African history.
One of the most significant moments in the history of the service was the introduction of the first commemorative stamps in 1926. These stamps were issued to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the arrival of Jan van Riebeeck, the founder of Cape Town. This marked the beginning of a long tradition of issuing commemorative stamps for important events and anniversaries in South Africa.
Famous Stamps from South African Post Office Philatelic Services:
The South African Post Office Philatelic Services has produced many notable stamps over the years. One of the most famous is the 1929 «Pictorial» series, which featured images of South African landscapes and wildlife. These stamps were designed by renowned artist and naturalist, J. C. Harrison, and are highly sought after by collectors.
Another iconic stamp is the 1961 «Republic» series, which marked the establishment of the Republic of South Africa. These stamps featured the national coat of arms and were designed by renowned artist, Cecil Skotnes. They are considered to be some of the most beautiful stamps in South African philatelic history.
Designs of South African Post Office Philatelic Services:
The South African Post Office Philatelic Services takes great pride in the design of their stamps. Each stamp is carefully crafted to reflect the unique culture, history, and natural beauty of South Africa. The service works closely with local artists and designers to create stamps that are not only visually appealing but also tell a story.
In recent years, the service has also embraced new technologies and has started producing stamps with augmented reality features. These stamps come to life when scanned with a smartphone, providing a unique and interactive experience for collectors.
The South African Post Office Philatelic Services is a vital part of the country’s postal system and has a rich history of producing stamps that reflect the diverse and vibrant culture of South Africa. With its commitment to quality and innovation, this service continues to attract collectors from around the world.
To learn more about the South African Post Office Philatelic Services and their products, visit their website at https://www.postoffice.co.za/philately.