Brunei Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Brunei Darussalam Stamps
Brunei Darussalam is a small sovereign state situated on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Its postal history is marked by periods under British protection, leading to the use of stamps inscribed with "British Borneo" before achieving full independence. Stamps predominantly feature Malay, often alongside English, reflecting its official languages. The country joined the Universal Postal Union in 1984, coinciding with its full sovereignty, which solidified its independent postal administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1895 – present
- Languages:
- Malay, English
- Currency:
- BND
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Stamp Catalogs
Brunei Darussalam stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Brunei Darussalam Stamp Series
Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin Issue (1895)
Brunei's first definitive stamps, featuring the portrait of Sultan Hashim Jalilul Alam Aqamaddin, overprinted 'BRUNEI'.
Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (1953)
A popular commemorative issue celebrating the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, common across many Commonwealth nations.
Independence Commemoratives (1984)
Stamps issued to mark Brunei's full independence and joining the Universal Postal Union, often featuring national symbols.
Brunei Darussalam Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those from 1895 and specific overprints, can be quite valuable. Later definitive and commemorative issues are generally affordable, with higher values for complete sets or unmounted mint condition.
How to Identify Brunei Darussalam Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Brunei Darussalam stamps:
- 1 Look for the inscription 'BRUNEI' or 'BRUNEI DARUSSALAM'.
- 2 Early stamps may feature portraits of British monarchs or the Sultan of Brunei.
- 3 Watermarks (e.g., Crown CA, Multiple Crown CA) are crucial for identifying early issues and varieties.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Brunei stamps?
Brunei stamps are postage stamps issued by the Sultanate of Brunei, a small sovereign state on the island of Borneo. Their postal history began in 1895 and includes periods under British protection, with stamps often featuring Malay and English inscriptions.
Are Brunei stamps valuable?
The value of Brunei stamps varies significantly. Early issues, particularly the 1895 Sultan Hashim series and certain overprints, can be quite valuable, ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars. Later definitive and commemorative stamps are generally more common and affordable, typically ranging from $0.50 to $5, with higher values for complete sets or pristine condition.
How can I identify Brunei stamps?
To identify Brunei stamps, look for the country name 'BRUNEI' or 'BRUNEI DARUSSALAM' printed on the stamp. Early issues may feature portraits of the Sultan or British monarchs. Watermarks are also important for identification. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app which can scan your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Brunei stamps?
Brunei stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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