Stamp Investment Tip: Rhodesia 1910 Queen Mary and King George (Scott #101-18)

  I'm initiating coverage of Rhodesia with an issue which is popular among British Commonwealth collectors, the 1910 Queen Mary and King George set (Scott #101-18). 9,550 sets were issued, and Scott '14 prices it unused at $4,640.-   .

  I expect that this set will prove a conservative investment based upon the steady growth of demand for better British Commonwealth stamps. I do not think that there will be much demand from collectors in the Republic of Zimbabwe, as its economy and near-term prospects for the development of a middle class there have been set back by the three decade dictatorship of Robert Mugabe, who celebrated his 90th birthday in February.

   A nation of about 13 million people, Zimbabwe is rich in gold, platinum, and diamonds, and also benefits from agricultural exports and tourism.  Unfortunately, until recently, much of the revenues wound up in the hands of President Mugabe and his cronies. In 2008, a new president, Morgan Tsvangirai, was elected, and a power-sharing deal between he and Mugabe was negotiated. Donor nations have adopted a 'wait-and-see' attitude, wanting to see real change being brought about by this merger before committing themselves to funding rebuilding efforts, which are estimated to take at least five years.Annual GDP growth has been slightly negative over the last five years, but has begun to recover.

    Those interested in becoming part of an international community of stamp collectors, dealers, and investors are encouraged to join the "Stampselectors" group at Facebook. The group hosts lively discussions concerning stamp investment and practical aspects of collecting, and provides a useful venue for those who wish to buy, sell, or trade stamps.