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Auction: 22016 - Important Stamps and Covers of the World
Lot: 31

(x) Basutoland
The Gun War
The so-called "Gun War" was precipitated by the Cape Government's decision to enforce disarmament on the Basothos of Basutoland following their refusal to hand over their guns. The confrontation lasted from September 1880 to 11 April 1881 during which time the Duke of Edinburgh's Own Volunteer Rifles from Cape Colony joined Brigadier-General Clarke's Headquaters column which was sent to relieve the besieged British stations in Basutoland.
1880 envelope to Cape Town, headed "Private R. Pillans No 6 Comp D.E.O.V.R." (Duke of Edinburgh's Own Volunteer Rifles), countersigned by Commanding Officer, showing Cape Town (11.10) and Rosebank (11.10) datestamps with, on reverse, Willow Park oval datestamp (5.10). B.P.A. Certificate (1980). Photo

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£600

Starting price
£400