South African Indigenous Cattle
South Africa, Irene · 1997-08-10
Official first day cover (FDC) · South African philately
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This official South African First Day Cover was issued on 10 August 1997 and cancelled at Irene, marking a set of stamps dedicated to South African indigenous cattle breeds. It carries a small set of stamps under SG reference 992 to 995, with SAPO serial number 6.64, and the cover's cachet features a simple illustration of a cow. Breeds like the Nguni and Drakensberger were closely associated with this issue and were known for their remarkable resistance to ticks and harsh climates. That trait made them increasingly valuable to modern beef farmers looking for hardy low maintenance stock.
Description of the Cachet
The cachet is a lovely, loosely painted portrait of a Nguni cow, its black and white patched coat rendered in soft, expressive brushstrokes against a hazy green and blue backdrop. The cow stands facing forward with its head turned gently to one side, so its patterned hide really takes centre stage. Underneath, the words "South African Indigenous Cattle" run in a deep maroon serif type.
Information Card
No info card.
Theme: Wildlife
Condition: Very FineVery attractive. Clean and crisp, no discolouration, only the slightest signs of handling.
Addressed: No
Signed: No
SG reference: 992-995
SAPO serial number: 6.64
Estimated value: ~US$1.36
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 209 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.
