Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 22016 - Important Stamps and Covers of the World
Lot: 332

(x) Transvaal
Military Mail
Mphefu War, 1898
1898 (14 Dec.) unstamped envelope to Johannesburg, headed "Veld Dienst", showing Pietersburg c.d.s. (14.12) with arrival datestamp (15.12) on reverse; the envelope with repair to flap on reverse. A rare cover from this little known and short-lived war. Photo

Note: The Mphefu War lasted from 18 October 1898 to 31 December 1898. The cause was the refusal of Mpefu to pay taxes.

A commando, with General Piet Joubert in command was raised. They launched a successful attack on Mphefu near Louis Trichardt and he surrendered on 31 December 1898. A twice-weekly conveyance of mails operated between Pietersburg and the Hooflager (Headquarters) in the Soutpansberg at Fort Hendrina for the burgers in the commando.

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

Sold for
£1,000

Starting price
£550