South Moluccas Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About South Moluccas Stamps
The South Moluccas, or Maluku Selatan, are an archipelago located in Maritime Southeast Asia, historically part of the Dutch East Indies. This region experienced significant postal activity under Dutch colonial rule, with stamps often bearing Dutch inscriptions alongside local names. The Republic of South Moluccas (RMS) briefly declared independence in 1950, leading to a complex period of postal administration marked by provisional issues and subsequent integration into the Indonesian postal system. Stamps from this era primarily reflect the transition from Dutch colonial administration to Indonesian sovereignty.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1950 – 1954
- Languages:
- Indonesian, Dutch
- Currency:
- IDR
- Parent issuer:
- Indonesia
Stamp Catalogs
South Moluccas stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular South Moluccas Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1950)
Stamps overprinted with 'Republik Maluku Selatan' or 'RMS' on Dutch East Indies or Indonesian stamps, reflecting the declaration of independence.
Definitive Issues (1950-1951)
A limited number of stamps specifically designed and issued by the Republic of South Moluccas, often featuring local imagery or national symbols.
issuer:south-moluccas.series.items.2.name (issuer:south-moluccas.series.items.2.period)
issuer:south-moluccas.series.items.2.description
South Moluccas Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of South Moluccas stamps varies significantly based on their authenticity, condition, and whether they are genuine provisional issues or later propaganda reprints. Genuine provisional overprints, especially on higher denominations or scarce base stamps, can be quite valuable. Forgeries and propaganda issues are common and generally hold little philatelic value.
How to Identify South Moluccas Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying South Moluccas stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Republik Maluku Selatan' or 'RMS' overprints on stamps originally issued by the Dutch East Indies or Indonesia.
- 2 Examine the overprint for authenticity; many forgeries exist. Genuine overprints often show specific characteristics in font and ink.
- 3 Check for postmarks from South Moluccan towns during the 1950-1954 period.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are South Moluccas stamps?
South Moluccas stamps refer to postal issues from the Republic of South Moluccas (RMS), a self-proclaimed independent state that existed briefly from 1950 to 1954. These stamps primarily consist of provisional issues, which are Dutch East Indies or Indonesian stamps overprinted with 'Republik Maluku Selatan' or 'RMS', and a small number of definitive issues.
Are South Moluccas stamps valuable?
The value of South Moluccas stamps can range from a few dollars for common or forged items to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for rare, genuine provisional issues, especially those with authentic cancellations or on cover. The authenticity of the overprint is crucial for determining value, as many propaganda issues and forgeries exist.
How can I identify South Moluccas stamps?
To identify South Moluccas stamps, look for the specific overprints 'Republik Maluku Selatan' or 'RMS' on stamps from the Dutch East Indies or early Indonesia. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint, as forgeries are prevalent. Consulting a specialized catalog or using a stamp identifier app can help verify authenticity and provide more detailed information.
Which catalogs list South Moluccas stamps?
South Moluccas stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, including catalog numbers, descriptions, and estimated values for genuine issues. However, due to the prevalence of forgeries, expert authentication is often recommended.
Not sure if your stamp is from South Moluccas?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store