Perak Stamps
Perak is a state located on the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, historically significant within the Federated Malay States. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to British colonial administration, which oversaw the development of its postal services under Straits Settlements authority before transitioning through the Malayan Union and Federation of Malaya.
- Issued stamps
- 1878–2018
- Region
- Asia, Southeast Asia
- Currency
- MYR
- Languages
- English, Malay
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- Federated Malay States
About Perak stamps
Stamps issued by Perak predominantly feature English alongside Malay (Jawi script sometimes appearing in earlier issues), reflecting its diverse population and colonial governance structure. The state's distinct postal issues ceased upon the formation of a unified Malaysian postal system.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- PERAK
How to identify Perak stamps
- Look for 'PERAK' inscription, often in English, sometimes with Jawi script on earlier issues.
- Identify the portrait of the reigning Sultan for definitive issues, or the 'Tiger Head' design for early colonial stamps.
- Check for overprints on Straits Settlements or Federated Malay States stamps, which indicate their use in Perak.
Popular series
-
Tiger Head Issue
1900-1901
Stamps featuring the iconic tiger head design, initially Straits Settlements stamps overprinted 'PERAK'.
-
Federated Malay States Key Plate Issues
1900-1935
Common designs used across the FMS, with 'PERAK' inscribed, often depicting local scenes or rulers.
-
Sultan Idris Shah II Issue
1965-1970
Definitive series featuring the portrait of Sultan Idris Shah II, issued after the formation of Malaysia but still distinct for Perak.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- €0.50–€10
- Scarce stamps
- €100–€5,000+
Early issues, particularly those with overprints or rare cancellations, command higher prices. Errors, varieties, and high-denomination definitives are also sought after. Later definitive issues are generally more common and less valuable.
Catalogs. Perak stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Perak stamps
Perak stamps are postage stamps issued by the Malaysian state of Perak, primarily during its period as a British protectorate within the Federated Malay States, and continuing with distinct issues after the formation of Malaysia until a unified postal system was fully established. They reflect the state's colonial history and its transition to independence.
The value of Perak stamps varies significantly. Early issues, especially those with rare overprints, errors, or high denominations, can be quite valuable, ranging from hundreds to several thousands of Euros. More common later definitive stamps are generally less valuable, often found for under €10. Condition, rarity, and historical significance all play a role in determining value.
Perak stamps can be identified by the 'PERAK' inscription, usually in English, and sometimes accompanied by Jawi script on older issues. Look for portraits of the Sultans of Perak or specific colonial designs like the 'Tiger Head'. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Perak 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. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, designs, varieties, and estimated values.
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