Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show

South Africa's rich heritage will be showcased at the Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show at the Sandton Convention Centre in October.

It will be held from 27 October to 31 October 2010, marking one hundred years since the then Union printed its first stamp.

Twelve years have lapsed since the last international stamp convention held on South Africa soil, and with the international stamp community supporting the exhibition - including the 26th Asian International Stamp Exhibition - it promises to be an exciting, not-to-be-missed event.

Howard Green, Co Chairperson of Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show says, "History is presented in so many ways - through literature, museums and film, yet few people experience history through the incredible journey of stamps. The Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show promises to be an incredible event for all ages, with postage stamps, postmarks, and related materials giving new insights and an inspired learning experience."
"It is a perfect opportunity for the entire family - offering nostalgia for the older generation and an interesting look at history for the younger set. Stamp collecting is also about art, with designs often reflecting top artists and themes through the ages. Much like art, stamps harbour investment potential, depending on the value, rarity and condition of stamps. These fascinating aspects will be explored by the many dozens of experts and collectors who are part of the show," says Green.

Designed to cater for the entire family, Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show, will also feature a child-friendly, activity area. Here, fun, stamp related activities will keep children busy and hopefully inspire a love for the hobby.

2010 is a significant year in South Africa's stamp history as it was one century ago that the first Union of South Africa stamp was printed, bearing ‘South Africa'. This stamp was not released, due to the passing of the King, but a stamp bearing the new King, Kind George V, was released later in the year (November), commemorating the opening of the Union Parliament.

This was the first of a range of stamps, called the Kings Head Stamps. First issued in September 1913 with values 1/2d to 10/, with additional values issued as late as 1920. These stamps will feature at Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show, as will a selection of the Queen Elizabeth 11 collection. The show will also host the official launch of the 8th definitive stamp series by the South African Post Office as well as an exhibition of Freedom stamps printed after 1994.

Green adds, "The international philatelic community, from some 45 countries, will collectively exhibit over 1,500 frames of competitive exhibits and more than 20,000 pages of stamps and philatelic material. This promises collectors, enthusiasts and the curious a feast of philately."

The Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show is sponsored by the Philatelic Foundation of South Africa and the South African Post Office, and has the patronage of the Federation of Inter-Asian Philately (FIAP). It is also recognised by the Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP), the international governing body for world philately.

The Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show will also include the 26th Asian International Stamp Exhibition.

For more information about The Joburg 2010 International Stamp Show, visit
www.joburg2010stampshow.co.za or e-mail info@joburg2010stampshow.co.za

Additional notes:

Philatelists can be a part of this historic and prestigious event by entering the competitive exhibition. Entries for the competitive exhibition close on 31 March 2010, and entry forms are available from www.joburg2010stampshow.co.za.

The presence of over 40 local and international dealers from the likes of Europe, USA and Australasia will provide a unique opportunity for trade for all collectors and budgets. South Africa, Swaziland, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Sudan are part of the participating African countries.

Further afield, participating countries include Australia, Bahrain, China, Chinese Taipei, France, Georgia, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Thailand, USA, UAE and Vietnam.

Alexia de Souza:- Alexia@marketingconcepts.co.za