Cape Post

The Cape Post is a historical term referring to postage stamps issued by the Cape of Good Hope, a British colony located in present-day South Africa. These stamps, issued between 1853 and 1910, are highly sought after by philatelists due to their relative rarity, particularly the early triangular stamps. The Cape of Good Hope was one of the first British colonies to issue its own postage stamps.

The most famous Cape Post stamps are the triangular issues, first released in 1853. These stamps were initially printed in imperforate sheets. Later issues included perforations to facilitate separation. The stamps feature an anchor and the words "Cape of Good Hope." The initial colors were red and blue; however, due to printing errors and color variations, some stamps exist in altered shades, which further increases their value and collectibility.

The Cape Post stamps reflect the postal history and colonial administration of the Cape of Good Hope. They are considered a significant part of South African and British philatelic heritage. They are often studied for variations in paper, printing methods, and color, offering insights into the printing processes of the time. Collecting Cape Post stamps requires considerable knowledge and resources, given their value and the potential for forgeries. Specialist literature and expert authentication are often necessary when dealing with these stamps.