Penang (Pulau Pinang) Stamps

Identification, history, popular series & stamp values

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About Penang (Pulau Pinang) Stamps

Penang, or Pulau Pinang, is an island state located in Southeast Asia, forming part of modern-day Malaysia. Historically, it was a vital trading port and one of the Straits Settlements, administered by the British Empire, which heavily influenced its early postal system. Stamps issued during the colonial era primarily featured English text alongside British imperial iconography, reflecting its status within the British postal network. Following the formation of Malaysia, Penang's postal administration was integrated into the national system, with stamps subsequently featuring Malay (Bahasa Melayu) as the primary language of issue.

Learn more: Wikipedia

Issuer Overview

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

Stamp Catalogs

Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:

✓ Scott Catalog
✓ Michel Catalog
✓ Stanley Gibbons Catalog

Popular Penang (Pulau Pinang) Stamp Series

King George VI Definitives (1948-1952)

The first definitive series issued specifically for Penang after the dissolution of the Straits Settlements, featuring portraits of King George VI and local scenes.

Queen Elizabeth II Definitives (1954-1957)

Following the accession of Queen Elizabeth II, new definitive stamps were issued for Penang, continuing the tradition of depicting the monarch and local motifs.

State Crest and Local Scenes (1960s)

Stamps issued after independence, often featuring the Penang state crest, local landmarks, and cultural elements, reflecting its status within the Malayan Federation.

Penang (Pulau Pinang) Stamp Value Overview

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

Value Notes: Common Penang stamps from the post-WWII era are generally affordable. Earlier colonial issues, especially those from the Straits Settlements overprinted for Penang, and certain errors or high values, can command significant prices. Condition is paramount for value.

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How to Identify Penang (Pulau Pinang) Stamps

Key features to look for when identifying Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps:

  • 1 Look for 'PENANG' or 'PULAU PINANG' explicitly printed on the stamp.
  • 2 Early issues (1948-1957) will feature British monarchs (George VI, Elizabeth II).
  • 3 Later issues (post-1957) will often include the state crest or local landmarks and may have 'MALAYSIA' or 'PERSEKUTUAN TANAH MELAYU' (Federation of Malaya) alongside 'PENANG'.

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 Malacca (Melaka) Federation of Malaya Malayan States Malaysia Negeri Sembilan North Borneo Pahang (Federated Malay States) Perak Perlis Sabah Sarawak Selangor Singapore Straits Settlements Sungei Ujong Trengganu Wilayah Persekutuan (Federal Territories of Malaysia)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps?

Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps refer to postage stamps issued specifically for the island state of Penang, which is now part of Malaysia. These stamps were issued from 1948, following the dissolution of the Straits Settlements, until its postal integration into the national Malaysian system. Earlier issues under the Straits Settlements also served Penang.

Are Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps valuable?

The value of Penang stamps varies widely. Common post-1948 definitive issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, certain earlier colonial issues, particularly those overprinted from Straits Settlements stamps, high-denomination stamps, or stamps with errors, can be quite valuable, fetching $50 to several hundred dollars or more. Rarity, condition, and demand play significant roles in determining value.

How can I identify Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps?

Penang stamps can be identified by the explicit inscription 'PENANG' or 'PULAU PINANG' on the stamp. Early issues will feature British monarchs, while later issues will often include the state crest or local landmarks. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize stamps, providing details about their origin and potential worth.

Which catalogs list Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps?

Penang (Pulau Pinang) stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under 'Penang' or 'Malaysia'), the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps Catalogue, and the Michel Ostasien (East Asia) catalog. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, denominations, and estimated values.

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