SG-Stamps: Explore Rare Collectibles and Philatelic Treasures Worldwide

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this is a great opportunity to add to your collection. Stamp of the month includes FREE SHIPPING anywhere in the world. This month features Madagascar. Feel free to ask for reverse scans of any of our stamps.

In 1890 the British accepted the formal imposition of the French protectorate on Madagascar in return for French acknowledgement of the British protectorate of Zanzibar (for the same reason the British had ceded the island of Heligoland to the Germans) The Malagasy themselves were less prepared to accept this and the French bombarded and occupied the harbours of Toamasina and Mahajanga in December 1895 respectively.

These fragrant acts of imperialism were followed by a French force marching on and attacking Antananarivo with bombardment of the royal palace which resulted in the deaths of many of the Malagasy. While this assault on the Malagasy was taking place , the government of Queen Ranavalona III agreed that the syndicate of British merchants in the capital, including the Vice-Consul, should operate an inland postal service during the period of war with France. Mail was sent to Vatomandry and forwarded via Durban where the stamps of Natal were added. The first issue of stamps prepared for this service was typeset by the London Missionary Press at Antananarivo in the values of 1d,4d,6d,8d,1s 2s and 4s and were released in January 1895