German East Africa was a German colonial territory in East Africa, which included present-day Tanzania (excluding Zanzibar), Rwanda, and Burundi. The region’s philatelic history began with the establishment of German control in the late 19th century and continued until the end of World War I, when the territory was divided among Britain and Belgium. The stamps from this period are significant for collectors due to their historical context and the variety of overprints and designs used. Here’s an overview of the key phases and types of stamps issued in German East Africa:

1. Early Postal History

First German Issues (1893)

• First Stamps:
  • The first stamps specifically issued for German East Africa were released in 1893. These were standard German “Reichspost” stamps overprinted with “Deutsch-Ostafrika” (German East Africa). The stamps featured designs similar to those used in Germany, including the imperial eagle.
• Surcharges and Overprints:
  • The early stamps often involved surcharges or overprints to meet local postal rate changes or to use surplus stocks from Germany.

2. Regular Issues and Key Designs

Kaiser Yacht Issue (1901-1916)

• Kaiser Yacht Series:
  • One of the most iconic and sought-after sets from German East Africa is the “Kaiser Yacht” series, issued in 1901. These stamps feature the image of the Kaiser’s yacht, “Hohenzollern,” and were used widely across German colonies. The design included intricate engravings and a distinct image of the yacht, symbolizing Germany’s imperial ambitions.
• Denominations and Colors:
  • The Kaiser Yacht stamps came in various denominations and colors, tailored to different postal rates and uses. These stamps are popular among collectors due to their artistic design and historical significance.

3. World War I and British Occupation

War and Overprints (1914-1918)

• British and Belgian Occupation:
  • During World War I, German East Africa became a theater of conflict. British and Belgian forces occupied the territory, and they used overprinted stamps during the military administration. Stamps of German East Africa were overprinted with “G.E.A.” (for British administration) and “Mafia” for the Mafia Island occupation.
• Postage Due and Censored Mail:
  • During the war, issues of postage due stamps and censor marks on mail became common, reflecting the chaotic wartime postal conditions.

4. Post-War and Transition

End of German Control (1918)

• Mandate and New Administrations:
  • After the defeat of Germany in World War I, the League of Nations divided German East Africa into mandate territories: Tanganyika under British control, Rwanda and Burundi under Belgian control. This transition marked the end of the German East Africa postal history.
• British and Belgian Postal Administrations:
  • The British and Belgian authorities began issuing their own stamps for these territories, often using overprints on existing stocks or new designs reflecting the administrative changes.

5. Collecting German East African Stamps

Key Features for Collectors

• Rarity and Value:
  • The rarity and value of German East African stamps vary significantly. Stamps from the early overprinted issues and the Kaiser Yacht series, particularly those with rare surcharges or used in specific locations, are highly valued.
• Condition and Provenance:
  • As with most philatelic items, the condition of the stamps—whether mint or used—plays a crucial role in their value. Covers, postal history items, and stamps with unique postmarks are also of special interest.
• Philatelic Societies and Catalogs:
  • Collectors often refer to specialized catalogs and societies that focus on German colonial issues, which provide detailed information on the varieties, overprints, and historical context of these stamps.

Overview

The postage stamps of German East Africa offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of a significant German colony in East Africa. From the early overprinted issues to the iconic Kaiser Yacht series, these stamps not only served postal purposes but also symbolized German colonial ambitions. The stamps from this era are highly collectible, valued for their historical context, intricate designs, and the stories they tell about a turbulent period in East African history. For philatelists, German East Africa remains a rich and rewarding area of study, providing insights into colonial history and postal practices.