Johannesburg J3a Postmark
Type J3 comprises squared circle postmarks. There are four types, all with 'Johannesburg' curved around the top. The first three types are 22 mm in diameter (measured across the circle) and the 4th type is 27 mm in diameter. There is either a single or double outer circle and an inner circle, with two partial rings in each corner topped off with a triangle. Some examples appear to be enclosed in a square box. They are known in black or blue ink
J3a has a three line date but does not have Z.A.R. at base; J3b has Z.A.R. at the base and a two line date as well as a code letter and may or may not be boxed; J3c has Z.A.R. at the base and a single line date; J3d was introduced later (1896), is larger (27 mm) and has a three line date
Left to right: J3a, J3b (i), J3b (ii), J3c, J3d
J3a. A squared single circle type 22 mm in diameter with 'Johannesburg' curving around the top and no wording at the base. There is a three line date, day in the top line, month in two letters in the middle line and below that is the year is in 4 figures
- J3a in black (18 March 1892 - 6 October 1893) rated 3R
- J3a in blue (19 September 1892) rated 3R
J3a squared circle in black
J3a - squared circle in blue
Johannesburg postmark type J3a in blue. Dated 19 September 1892. Rated 3R. Seen in the ZAR & Transvaal Philately Facebook Group
Putzel ratings
J3a - 2x rated 20 on stamp and 100 on cover
Matthews
J3a - 12a
