10th World orchid Conference
South Africa, Durban · 1981-09-11
Official first day cover (FDC) · South African philately
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This cover is postmarked on 11 September 1981 in Durban, SAPO reference PT 3.31. It marks the opening of the Tenth World Orchid Conference, which drew an expected 1 500 to 2 000 orchid growers from 40 countries. The four stamps, all painted by Jeanette Stead, feature South African orchid species including the red Disa uniflora, once described in a 19th century orchid book as the best terrestrial orchid in the world. Of the roughly 25 000 orchid species known worldwide, about 482 are indigenous to South Africa.
Description of the Cachet
The cachet shows a detailed botanical illustration of a Disperis fanniniae orchid, drawn in soft watercolour with pale white and cream flowers hanging from a slender stem lined with green leaves. The style matches the fine line and wash technique used across the four stamps, all painted by Jeanette Stead, so the cachet reads as a natural extension of the stamp artwork rather than a separate design. The illustration takes up most of the left side of the cover, giving the botanical subject plenty of room to breathe.
Theme: Flora
Condition: Very FineVery attractive. Clean and crisp, no discolouration, only the slightest signs of handling.
Addressed: No
Signed: No
Stamp denomination: R0.65 (ZAR)
SG reference: 497
SAPO serial number: 3.31
Estimated value: ~US$0.06
This is a high-level, subjective estimate only, not a professional appraisal.
This first day cover (FDC) is part of Southern Covers, a private collection of 216 first day covers documenting the postal history and philately of South Africa and the homeland states. New to first day cover collecting? Read the guide to learn about cachets, postmarks, and stamp collecting terms, or browse the whole collection of Southern African FDCs.
