World Post Day 1995
South Africa, Pretoria · 1995-10-09
Official first day cover (FDC) · South African philately
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front
info card 2
This cover is postmarked on 9 October 1995 in Pretoria, SAPO reference PT 6.24b. It marks World Post Day, an annual observance held on 9 October to commemorate the founding of the Universal Postal Union in 1874. The historical figure depicted running with a message tied to a staff represents the traditional runners once used to carry post across South Africa long before motorised delivery, a fitting image for a day that celebrates the postal service's evolution.
Description of the Cachet
The cover features two illustrations. The left panel shows a historical painting of a runner in traditional dress, a bundle of letters tied to a long staff held aloft, running barefoot in mid stride against a soft sepia background. The second panel, printed as a separate insert, shows three overlapping silhouetted postal runners in white, red and yellow racing forward with parcels in hand, set against a gradient blue and gold background. The words "The Post, the best choice" run across the top in bold white lettering, with the World Post Day globe emblem in the corner.
Information Card
No info card supplied for this cover.
Theme: National Events
Condition: FineGood condition. Minor wear or small imperfections, but overall well-presented.
Addressed: No
Signed: No
SAPO serial number: 6.24b
Estimated value: ~US$0.43
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 223 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.
