Sarawak Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Sarawak Stamps
Sarawak, situated on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, was historically an independent sultanate that became a British Crown Colony following its cession to the Brooke family in the mid-19th century. Its postal history is marked by issues under the White Rajahs, followed by British colonial administration until joining the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. Stamps from this era predominantly feature English alongside Malay, reflecting the administrative language and local culture. The transition to Malaysian postal authority marked a significant administrative shift, integrating Sarawak into the broader Malaysian postal system while retaining some distinct local issues early in the federation period.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1869 – 2018
- Languages:
- English, Malay
- Currency:
- MYR
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
Sarawak stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Sarawak Stamp Series
First Issues (Brooke Raj) (1869-1899)
Early issues featuring the portrait of Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah, often with surcharges.
Pictorial Issues (1932-1950)
Stamps depicting local scenes, wildlife, and the portrait of Charles Vyner Brooke, the third White Rajah.
Queen Elizabeth II Issues (1950-1963)
Colonial issues featuring the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, marking the transition to Crown Colony status.
Sarawak Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Sarawak stamps are generally affordable. Rarities include early surcharges, errors, and high-value definitives, especially those in fine used or mint condition. Covers and postal history items can also command significant prices.
How to Identify Sarawak Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Sarawak stamps:
- 1 Look for 'SARAWAK' inscription, often alongside 'POSTAGE & REVENUE'.
- 2 Early stamps feature portraits of the Brooke Rajahs; later issues feature Queen Elizabeth II.
- 3 Many stamps are bi-lingual, with English and Malay text.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sarawak stamps?
Sarawak stamps are postage stamps issued by the historical state of Sarawak, located on the island of Borneo. They were issued under the rule of the Brooke family (the White Rajahs) and subsequently as a British Crown Colony, before Sarawak joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963.
Are Sarawak stamps valuable?
The value of Sarawak stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for under $10, while rare stamps, such as early surcharges, errors, and high-denomination definitives, especially in pristine condition, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical significance heavily influence their value.
How can I identify Sarawak stamps?
Sarawak stamps can be identified by the 'SARAWAK' inscription, the portraits of the Brooke Rajahs or Queen Elizabeth II, and often bilingual text in English and Malay. For precise identification, including watermarks, perforations, and specific printings, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Sarawak stamps?
Sarawak stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs. Collectors can find detailed information in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (Volume 3 for British Commonwealth), the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue, and the Michel Ostasien (East Asia) catalogue.
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