Siege Money

On October 13 1899, during the Second Boer War, Boer forces laid siege to the small town of Mafeking. The British, who were trying to make an increased military statement in the area, had occupied and fortified the town because of its tactical importance. The forces inside the town, under the command of Colonel Baden-Powell, numbered only 2000, whereas the Boer forces outside were almost four times as strong.

Among the men fighting inside the town were a large contingent of boy soldiers who acted as messengers, freeing up more of the grown men to fight. Interestingly, these boys were the inspiration for the scouting movement which was formed by Baden-Powell upon his return to England.

The town ended up holding out for 217 days in what became known as one of the finest British actions during the war. The news of the hold-out served to boost morale both in South Africa and amongst the people back in Britain.

While under siege, Baden-Powell authorized the issue of a series of siege notes, to be used by the people of the town. The notes in the various denominations were printed on writing paper using a woodcut and makeshift block constructed out of a croquet mallet. During the course of the siege more than 5,000 pounds were produced but only around 600 pounds were ever redeemed, most of the notes being kept as souvenirs.

What is interesting about the two notes owned by Strand Coins is that they originally had the same serial numbers, with one being stamped a second time with a new number. Purchased separately, these notes have been put back together over 100 years after they were first printed.

Note: Just one of the notes is pictured.

For more information on these notes please contact us.