Sabah Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Sabah Stamps
Sabah, located in Southeast Asia on the northern part of the island of Borneo, was historically administered as British North Borneo under a chartered company before becoming a Crown Colony. Its postal history reflects this British colonial heritage, with early issues featuring the effigy of the reigning British monarch and English text. Following the formation of Malaysia in 1963, Sabah transitioned to issuing stamps under the Malaysian postal administration, often featuring bilingual text in Malay and English. This transition marks a significant shift from colonial to national postal identity within the context of the Federation of Malaysia.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1964 – 2018
- Languages:
- Malay, English
- Currency:
- MYR
- Parent issuer:
- Malaysia
Stamp Catalogs
Sabah stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Sabah Stamp Series
Definitives (1965-1970s)
Early definitive issues featuring local flora, fauna, and industries, often with bilingual inscriptions.
Commemorative Issues (1960s-1980s)
Stamps celebrating national events, cultural heritage, and significant anniversaries within Malaysia.
Tourism and Wildlife (1980s-2000s)
Series highlighting Sabah's rich biodiversity and natural attractions, including Mount Kinabalu and unique wildlife.
Sabah Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most common Sabah stamps from the post-1963 period are readily available and inexpensive. Earlier issues from British North Borneo, especially those with errors or rare cancellations, can command significant prices. Later commemorative sets in mint condition hold moderate value, while individual rare varieties or plate flaws can be highly sought after by specialists.
How to Identify Sabah Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Sabah stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Sabah' printed on the stamp, often alongside 'Malaysia'.
- 2 Stamps issued after 1963 will typically feature the Malaysian coat of arms or symbols, and often bilingual text in Malay and English.
- 3 Early issues (pre-1963) will be marked 'British North Borneo' and feature the British monarch's effigy.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sabah stamps?
Sabah stamps are postage stamps issued by the Malaysian state of Sabah, located on the island of Borneo. Prior to 1963, the territory issued stamps as British North Borneo. After joining the Federation of Malaysia, Sabah continued to issue its own state-specific stamps under the Malaysian postal administration, often alongside federal issues.
Are Sabah stamps valuable?
The value of Sabah stamps varies widely. Common post-1963 issues are generally inexpensive, often ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, earlier British North Borneo stamps, particularly those with rare cancellations, errors, or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Later commemorative sets in mint condition can also hold moderate value. Consult a stamp catalog or a philatelic expert for specific valuations.
How can I identify Sabah stamps?
To identify Sabah stamps, look for the inscription 'Sabah' on the stamp, often accompanied by 'Malaysia' for issues after 1963. Earlier issues (pre-1963) will be marked 'British North Borneo'. Key visual elements include local flora, fauna, cultural scenes, and national symbols. For quick and accurate identification, use a stamp identifier app that can scan your stamp and provide details.
Which catalogs list Sabah stamps?
Sabah stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under Malaysia and British North Borneo), the Michel catalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (also under Malaysia and British North Borneo). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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