Malagasy – Scott #s 1216-23

Description

Issued in 1993, Malagasy Scott #1216–1223 is a pictorial commemorative set depicting beetles native to Madagascar, highlighting the island’s exceptional insect biodiversity. Released by the Republic of Madagascar, the issue reflects a late-20th-century focus on scientific, educational, and wildlife themes that appealed strongly to topical collectors.

The stamps feature finely detailed illustrations of various beetle species, each shown in isolation against a clean white background to emphasize anatomical structure, coloration, and patterning. Species depicted include Necrophorus tomentosus, Dynastes tityus, Megaloxantha bicolor, Calosoma sycophanta, Chrysochroa miabilis, Crioceris asparagi, and Cetonia aurata. The precise line work and naturalistic coloring give the set a scientific-illustration quality reminiscent of entomological plates.

The issue also includes a souvenir sheet featuring the large stag beetle Goliathus goliathus, presented in dramatic close-up to showcase its scale and distinctive form. The oversized format and minimalist layout make the sheet a striking visual centerpiece for the set.

Denominations range from low to high values, expressed in both Malagasy francs and ariary, reflecting the transitional currency system in use during the early 1990s. The cohesive presentation and taxonomic focus make the set particularly attractive to collectors of insects, entomology, and African wildlife themes.

This complete set is offered mint never hinged (MNH), including the souvenir sheet, with full original gum throughout. All stamps are clean, well-centered, and retain fresh color with intact perforations.

Country: Republic of Madagascar
Year of Issue: 1993
Scott Numbers: 1216–1223
Denominations: Various (francs and ariary)
Condition: Mint Never Hinged (MNH)