1910 Rhodesia

This seven shillings sixpence stamp from Rhodesia was issued in 1910 as part of the famed "Double Heads" series produced by the British South Africa Company. The design features conjoined portraits of King George V and his wife Queen Mary, rendered in fine engraved detail. The stamp is printed in striking blue and red bi-color, one of eighteen denominations in this iconic series which ranged from half-penny to one pound. The inscription reads "British South Africa Company" across the top with "Rhodesia" prominently displayed at the bottom, the first time the territory's name appeared on stamps issued under that name alone.

The Double Heads series was issued on November 11, 1910, originally commissioned to commemorate the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Connaught to Southern Africa. Originally designed to feature King Edward VII, the series was redesigned after his death in 1910 to showcase the new sovereign, King George V, and Queen Mary, symbolizing British imperial authority and the dynasty's continuity. The series became one of the most beautiful and widely collected issues of the British Commonwealth, with many denominations printed in striking bi-color combinations that enhanced their aesthetic appeal. The seven shillings sixpence denomination was one of the highest values, covering the most substantial postal rates for the heaviest correspondence and parcels within Rhodesia and to destinations throughout the British Empire.

The Double Heads remained in circulation from 1910 to 1913, though some denominations continued in use slightly longer. The series is celebrated by collectors for its artistic design, multiple color variations, and numerous printing varieties including perforation differences, paper types, and watermark variations. Among the most notable printing flaws that can appear across the series is the "gash in ear" variety, a distinctive mark on the printing plate. The Double Heads were replaced in September 1913 by a new series featuring King George V alone in the uniform of Admiral of the Fleet, but the Double Heads remain regarded as classics of British Commonwealth philately.