Malacca (Melaka) Stamps

Identification, history, popular series & stamp values

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About Malacca (Melaka) Stamps

Malacca, located on the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, was a significant trading port under various colonial powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Its postal history is primarily tied to the Straits Settlements administration, where stamps were issued under British authority, often sharing designs with Penang and Singapore. The primary language appearing on these colonial issues was English, reflecting British administration. Following the dissolution of the Straits Settlements, Malacca transitioned through the Federated Malay States and eventually became part of independent Malaysia, with its distinct postal identity subsumed into the national postal system.

Learn more: Wikipedia

Issuer Overview

Region:
Asia
Subregion:
Southeast Asia
Issuing period:
1948 – 2018
Languages:
English, Malay
Currency:
MYR
Parent issuer:
Malaysia

Stamp Catalogs

Malacca (Melaka) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:

✓ Scott Catalog
✓ Michel Catalog
✓ Stanley Gibbons Catalog

Popular Malacca (Melaka) Stamp Series

Malacca State Issues (1948-1957)

Stamps issued specifically for Malacca as a British settlement, often featuring local scenes or the Sultan's portrait, before full integration into independent Malaysia's postal system.

Definitives of King George VI (1948-1952)

A series of definitive stamps featuring the portrait of King George VI, common across many British colonial territories, overprinted or inscribed for Malacca.

Queen Elizabeth II Definitives (1953-1957)

Following the accession of Queen Elizabeth II, new definitive series were issued, often with her portrait and specific Malacca inscriptions, before the Malayan Federation's independence.

Malacca (Melaka) Stamp Value Overview

Common stamps
$0.50 - $5
Rare stamps
$50 - $500+

Value Notes: Common Malacca stamps from the post-Straits Settlements era are generally affordable. Rarer varieties include errors, specific plate flaws, or high-denomination stamps in pristine condition. Early issues from the Straits Settlements period overprinted for Malacca can command higher prices.

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How to Identify Malacca (Melaka) Stamps

Key features to look for when identifying Malacca (Melaka) stamps:

  • 1 Look for 'MALACCA' or 'MELAKA' as the primary inscription on the stamp.
  • 2 Early issues may feature portraits of British monarchs (George VI, Elizabeth II) or local Malayan scenes.
  • 3 Check for watermarks, especially on older issues, which can be crucial for identification and value.

Related Issuers & Topics

Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:

British Colonies British Military Administration Malaya Federated Malay States Japanese Occupation of Johore (WWII) Japanese Occupation of Malacca Japanese WWII Occupation of Negri Sembilan Japanese Occupation of Pahang (WWII) Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) Japanese WWII Occupation of Selangor Japanese Occupation of Straits Settlements (WWII) Japanese WWII Occupation of Malayan Postal Union Johore Kedah Kelantan Labuan Federation of Malaya Malayan States Malaysia Negeri Sembilan North Borneo Pahang (Federated Malay States) Penang (Pulau Pinang) Perak Perlis Sabah Sarawak Selangor Singapore Straits Settlements Sungei Ujong Trengganu Wilayah Persekutuan (Federal Territories of Malaysia)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Malacca (Melaka) stamps?

Malacca (Melaka) stamps refer to postage stamps issued for the British settlement of Malacca, primarily from 1948 until its full integration into independent Malaysia's postal system. Before 1948, Malacca used stamps of the Straits Settlements. These stamps reflect its colonial history and subsequent transition.

Are Malacca (Melaka) stamps valuable?

The value of Malacca (Melaka) stamps varies significantly. Common definitive issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain rare varieties, such as errors, specific overprints, or high-denomination stamps in fine condition, can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds of dollars. Condition plays a crucial role in determining value.

How can I identify Malacca (Melaka) stamps?

To identify Malacca (Melaka) stamps, look for the inscription 'MALACCA' or 'MELAKA'. Many issues feature portraits of British monarchs or local Malayan imagery. Consulting a philatelic catalog like Scott, Michel, or Stanley Gibbons is highly recommended. You can also use a stamp identification app by scanning the stamp, which can help quickly identify its origin and details.

Which catalogs list Malacca (Melaka) stamps?

Malacca (Melaka) stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You will find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (often under Malaysia or British Commonwealth), the Michel catalog (under Malaysia/Malaya), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.

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