Malaysia - Pahang 1898 4c on Perak 8c dull purple and ultramarine, type 13 surcharge, error SURCHARGE DOUBLE, SG25b.
A fine mint example with large part original gum. Typical traces of offsetting, but a really fine example for this issue.
A rare stamp error.
The Stanley Gibbons catalogue value is £1,000.
Further information:
1. Why Pahang Used Perak Stamps
At the time, Pahang was a British Protectorate, part of the Federated Malay States. Pahang didn’t initially have its own stamp printing infrastructure. When local supplies were exhausted or new denominations were needed, stamps from neighbouring states such as Perak were overprinted and repurposed.
This practical and cost-effective method often led to typesetting variations and errors, which are now prized by collectors.
2. Type 13 Surcharge
This was one of several overprint styles used on Perak stamps to convert them for Pahang use. It consists of bold serifed type, usually applied locally by hand or rudimentary presses. Such overprinting processes were prone to misalignment, shifting, or multiple impressions.
3. Double Surcharge Error
This error is the result of the sheet being accidentally fed through the press twice, or shifted mid-process. These kinds of errors were rarely caught at the time due to low print quality standards in the colonies and have become notable rarities. The double surcharge can appear quite subtle, depending on spacing and ink density, but is always of strong interest to specialists.
4. The Design
The base Perak 8c design features a Malayan tiger’s head — a widely used motif across the Federated Malay States during the colonial period. The tiger symbolised strength and local fauna.
- BUY NOW: Order online, by phone +44 (0)1534 639 998, or via email info@paulfrasercollectibles.com
