Stamps and coin collectors had a field day at the Malayan Banknote & Stamp Fair held at the Prangin Mall here.
The three-day event (Dec 3-5) saw some 50 collectors from all over the country converging to share their interest and passion.
One of the participants was Robert Evans, 76-years-old who lives in Penang under the MM2H programme who was accompanied by his wife Venise.
Evans, who is from the United Kingdom, actually served in Malaysia with the British Armed forces back in the 60s.
“Although my base was in Malacca, I was involved in operations in Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore against the communist insurgents.
“My passion for stamp collection started from then. Most of my stamps were from this era. I also have some collections from the United Kingdom, Australia and Hong Kong,” said Evans.
Evans is a member of the Penang Philatelic Society and the Malay study group in the UK, often takes part in exhibitions all over the country.
Another ardent collector R. Govindasamy who hails from Ipoh.
He has been involved in this industry for more than 50 years and is often invited for interviews on television and print media.
“Most of my collection is from the Straits Settlement era. I have notes, coins and stamps like the old Malaya era. There are those like Old Malaya, King Edward, King George V and VI and Queen Elizabeth. Others are from the Japanese occupation days and more.
“Now, my son, Kajen, has also taken an interest in my hobby and often accompanies me on my travels.
“Nowadays, there are auctions on Facebook where collectors and buyers trade their coins and stamps.
“Among my prized items are those from the Straits Settlement era which can go into thousands of ringgit in terms of value,” said Govindasamy.
