Allied Occupation Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Allied Occupation (Germany & Austria) Stamps
The Allied Occupation refers to the post-World War II administration of Germany and Austria by the victorious Allied powers, primarily the United States, United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union. This period in Central Europe saw the issuance of provisional postal stationery by the occupying forces, often superseding previous national issues. Stamps from this era typically feature the names or abbreviations of the occupying powers, reflecting the complex administrative division of the territories. The postal history of these regions during this time is marked by the transition from the Third Reich to separate zones of occupation, preceding the establishment of the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1945 – 1949
- Languages:
- German, English, French, Russian
- Currency:
- DEM
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Stamp Catalogs
Allied Occupation (Germany & Austria) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Allied Occupation (Germany & Austria) Stamp Series
Allied Occupation - Germany (American, British, French Zones) (1945-1948)
Issues for the combined Western zones, often featuring 'AM POST' or 'Deutsche Post' overprints, and later definitive series like the 'Buildings' and 'Workers' issues.
Allied Occupation - Germany (Soviet Zone) (1945-1949)
Stamps issued under Soviet administration, including local issues, 'Deutsche Post' overprints, and early definitive series reflecting the emerging socialist state.
Allied Occupation - Austria (1945-1947)
Provisional issues for Austria, initially overprints on existing Austrian stamps, followed by new designs under Allied control before the re-establishment of a sovereign Austrian postal service.
Allied Occupation (Germany & Austria) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps from the Allied Occupation period are generally inexpensive. However, certain provisional issues, specific overprints, errors, and stamps from smaller localities or early printings can command significant prices. Condition is crucial, with mint never-hinged (MNH) examples being more valuable.
How to Identify Allied Occupation (Germany & Austria) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Allied Occupation (Germany & Austria) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'AM POST', 'Deutsche Post', or 'Österreich' (Austria) inscriptions, often with overprints indicating the occupying power or zone.
- 2 Examine watermarks, as some issues used different paper types or watermarks.
- 3 Pay attention to specific overprint types and their placement, as variations can indicate different printings or errors.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Allied Occupation stamps?
Allied Occupation stamps refer to postal issues used in Germany and Austria immediately following World War II, administered by the victorious Allied powers (United States, United Kingdom, France, and the Soviet Union). These stamps superseded previous national issues and were used in the respective occupation zones until new national postal services were established.
Are Allied Occupation stamps valuable?
While many common Allied Occupation stamps are relatively inexpensive, certain issues can be quite valuable. These include rare provisional overprints, specific local issues, errors, and stamps in pristine condition (especially mint never-hinged). The value depends heavily on the specific issue, rarity, and condition.
How can I identify Allied Occupation stamps?
Identifying Allied Occupation stamps involves looking for specific inscriptions like 'AM POST', 'Deutsche Post', or 'Österreich', often with overprints indicating the occupying power or zone. Examining watermarks, print variations, and comparing them with catalog references is essential. For quick identification, consider using a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list Allied Occupation stamps?
Allied Occupation stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (often under Germany and Austria), the Michel Deutschland-Spezial-Katalog (for Germany) and Michel Österreich-Spezial-Katalog (for Austria), and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (for British Zone issues and general coverage).
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