Perlis Stamps
Perlis is the northernmost state on the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, bordering Thailand. Historically, it was part of the northern Malay Sultanates, eventually falling under Siamese influence before becoming a British protectorate in 1909, administered as part of the Straits Settlements and later the Federated Malay States.
- Issued stamps
- 1948–2018
- Region
- Asia, Southeast Asia
- Currency
- MYR
- Languages
- Malay, English
- Issuer type
- Modern postal administration
- Part of
- Malaysia
About Perlis stamps
Stamps issued for Perlis, primarily during the period of British influence and subsequent independence, feature Malay alongside English, reflecting its linguistic heritage within the Federation of Malaya and modern Malaysia. The state's postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader evolution of the Malaysian postal system following the end of colonial rule.
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.
- PERLIS
- PERLIS POSTAGE
- BMA
- MALAYSIA
How to identify Perlis stamps
- Look for the inscription 'PERLIS' or 'PERLIS POSTAGE' clearly printed on the stamp.
- Early issues may feature overprints like 'BMA' on Straits Settlements stamps.
- Later issues (post-1963) will often include the word 'MALAYSIA' alongside 'PERLIS' and the value in Malaysian Ringgit (or earlier, Malayan Dollar).
Popular series
-
Definitives of 1949-1955 (BMA Overprints)
1949-1955
Stamps of the Straits Settlements overprinted 'BMA' (British Military Administration) for use in Perlis, often featuring portraits of King George VI.
-
Sultan's Head Issue
1957-1963
Definitive series featuring the portrait of the Sultan of Perlis, Sir Syed Putra Jamalullail, and local scenes, issued after independence.
-
Malaysian States Definitives
1965-Present (as part of Malaysia)
Stamps issued as part of the broader Malaysian definitive series, often featuring state emblems or local landmarks, inscribed 'Perlis'.
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–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$500+
Common Perlis stamps are generally inexpensive, especially those issued as part of the broader Malaysian postal system. Earlier issues, particularly those from the British Military Administration period or early definitives in fine condition or with specific varieties (e.g., errors, plate flaws), can command higher prices. Mint never-hinged examples are more valuable than used or hinged stamps.
Catalogs. Perlis 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 Perlis stamps
Perlis stamps are postage stamps issued for the Malaysian state of Perlis, primarily from 1948 onwards. They reflect the state's history, from British protectorate status to its integration into the Federation of Malaya and later Malaysia, often featuring local rulers, landmarks, and cultural motifs.
The value of Perlis stamps varies significantly. Many common issues are inexpensive, ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, earlier issues, particularly those from the British Military Administration period, early definitive sets, or stamps with rare varieties or errors, can be quite valuable, potentially fetching $50 to over $500, especially in pristine condition.
You can identify Perlis stamps by looking for the inscription 'PERLIS' or 'PERLIS POSTAGE' on the stamp. Early issues might have 'BMA' overprints. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Perlis stamps are comprehensively listed in all major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (typically found under 'Malayan States' or 'Malaysia'), Michel (under 'Malaysia' or 'Malaya'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Malaysia' or 'Malayan States'). These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values.
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