Kedah Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Kedah Stamps
Kedah is a state located in the northern Malay Peninsula, part of Southeast Asia. Historically a sultanate with significant regional influence, its postal history falls under the broader context of British influence in Malaya, eventually becoming part of the Federation of Malaya. Stamps issued by Kedah typically feature the Malay language, often alongside English, reflecting its status as a Malay state within the modern Malaysian federation. The transition from its own sultanate postal administration to integration within the unified Malaysian postal system marks a key administrative shift in its philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1912 – 2018
- Languages:
- Malay, English
- Currency:
- MYR
- Parent issuer:
- Malaya (British Military Administration)
Stamp Catalogs
Kedah stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Kedah Stamp Series
First Definitive Issue (Tiger and State Crest) (1912-1921)
Kedah's inaugural stamp series, featuring the state crest and a tiger, overprinted on Straits Settlements stamps.
Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah Issue (1921-1937)
Definitive series depicting Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, the 26th Sultan of Kedah, in various denominations.
Coronation of King George VI (1937)
Commemorative stamps issued for the coronation of King George VI, common to many British colonies and protectorates.
Kedah Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those with specific overprints or high denominations, can be quite valuable. Condition plays a significant role, as does the presence of plate flaws or errors. Later definitive issues are generally more affordable.
How to Identify Kedah Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Kedah stamps:
- 1 Look for 'KEDAH' inscription, often in English and Jawi script.
- 2 Early issues are overprinted on Straits Settlements stamps, so check for both 'STRAITS SETTLEMENTS' and 'KEDAH'.
- 3 Identify the ruling Sultan depicted on definitive issues for dating.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Kedah stamps?
Kedah stamps are postage stamps issued by the state of Kedah, located in the northern Malay Peninsula. They were first issued in 1912, initially as overprints on Straits Settlements stamps, and later as distinct issues, reflecting its status as a British Protected State and subsequent integration into Malaysia.
Are Kedah stamps valuable?
The value of Kedah stamps varies significantly. Early issues, particularly those from the 1912-1921 period with specific overprints or higher denominations, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of dollars. Later definitive issues are generally more common and affordable, typically valued between $0.50 and $10. Rarity, condition, and specific varieties all influence value.
How can I identify Kedah stamps?
You can identify Kedah stamps by looking for the prominent 'KEDAH' inscription, often in both English and Jawi script. Early issues will also bear the 'STRAITS SETTLEMENTS' inscription beneath the Kedah overprint. Identifying the portrait of the ruling Sultan (e.g., Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah, Sultan Badlishah) can help date later definitive series. For precise identification and catalog numbers, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list Kedah stamps?
Kedah stamps are comprehensively listed in major international philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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