Federation of Malaya Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Federation of Malaya Stamps
The Federation of Malaya, situated in Maritime Southeast Asia, emerged as a distinct political entity following the dissolution of the British Military Administration after World War II. Its postal history is rooted in the British colonial era, succeeding the Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States, with stamps predominantly denominated in Straits dollars before transitioning to Malaysian currency. The stamps typically feature English alongside Jawi script and Malay, reflecting the linguistic landscape of the peninsula. This entity existed from 1948 until its merger with North Borneo and Sarawak to form the larger Federation of Malaysia in 1963, marking a significant administrative transition in its philatelic record.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1957 – 1963
- Languages:
- English, Malay, Jawi
- Currency:
- MYR
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Stamp Catalogs
Federation of Malaya stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Federation of Malaya Stamp Series
Definitive Series (1957-1963) (1957-1963)
The primary definitive series issued by the Federation of Malaya, featuring various local scenes, fauna, and flora, often with the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Commemorative Issues (1957-1963)
A limited number of commemorative stamps marking significant national events, such as the Independence (Merdeka) issue.
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Federation of Malaya Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Higher values, particularly complete sets, errors, or stamps with significant postal history, can command higher prices. Early definitive issues in mint condition or on cover are more sought after.
How to Identify Federation of Malaya Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Federation of Malaya stamps:
- 1 Look for 'FEDERATION OF MALAYA' or 'PERSEKUTUAN TANAH MELAYU' as the country name.
- 2 Stamps feature the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on many definitive issues.
- 3 Denominations are in cents and dollars (Malayan dollar), often with both English and Jawi script.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Federation of Malaya stamps?
Federation of Malaya stamps are postage stamps issued by the political entity known as the Federation of Malaya, which existed from 1957 to 1963. These stamps succeeded those of the British Military Administration and preceded the stamps of Malaysia, reflecting the nation's journey towards independence.
Are Federation of Malaya stamps valuable?
The value of Federation of Malaya stamps varies. Many common issues are inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain definitive high values, complete sets, errors, or stamps with significant postal history can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds of dollars. Condition plays a crucial role in determining value.
How can I identify Federation of Malaya stamps?
You can identify Federation of Malaya stamps by looking for the inscriptions 'FEDERATION OF MALAYA' or 'PERSEKUTUAN TANAH MELAYU'. Many definitive stamps feature Queen Elizabeth II's portrait. Denominations are in cents and dollars, often with both English and Jawi script. For precise identification and cataloging, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Federation of Malaya stamps?
Federation of Malaya stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, the Michel catalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue.
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