African Cup of Nations 1996
South Africa, Johannesburg · 1996-01-10
Official first day cover (FDC) · South African philately
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This cover was postmarked on 10 January 1996 and catalogued as SAPO 6.28. It celebrated South Africa hosting the 1996 African Cup of Nations. The host nation went on to win the tournament by beating Tunisia 2-0 in the final. It was only South Africa's second appearance in the competition since being readmitted to African football and the victory was still remembered as one of the great unifying sporting moments of the country's early democratic years.
Description of the Cachet
The cachet is split into two halves. On the left, a bold graphic illustration shows a footballer sliding into a kick, rendered in flat green, yellow and white shapes against a dark green background, with "Football 1996" printed in large white lettering above. On the right, a softer, sketch style illustration by G. Sithole shows a lively street game of football, complete with children, a dog and passers by, giving the cover a more nostalgic, everyday feel alongside the bold modern design on the other side.
Information Card
No info card
Theme: Sport
Condition: Very FineVery attractive. Clean and crisp, no discolouration, only the slightest signs of handling.
Addressed: No
Signed: No
SG reference: 898-902
SAPO serial number: 6.28
Estimated value: ~US$1.55
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 211 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.
