General Government Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About General Government (German Occupation of Poland) Stamps
The General Government was an occupied territory in Central Europe established by Nazi Germany following the invasion of Poland in 1939. Its postal administration operated under German authority, resulting in stamps primarily featuring German inscriptions alongside Polish place names or denominations. This entity existed solely during the period of World War II, ceasing to function with the liberation of the region in 1945, which led to the reestablishment of Polish postal services. The stamps issued reflect this unique, temporary administrative status under foreign military occupation.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1939 – 1944
- Languages:
- German, Polish
- Currency:
- RM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
General Government (German Occupation of Poland) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular General Government (German Occupation of Poland) Stamp Series
General Government Overprints (1939-1940)
Polish stamps overprinted with 'Deutsches Reich' and new denominations, often featuring a swastika.
Hitler Head Issues (1940-1944)
Definitive stamps featuring the portrait of Adolf Hitler, common to many German occupation territories.
Views of Poland Series (1941-1944)
Stamps depicting various scenic views and landmarks within the General Government territory.
General Government (German Occupation of Poland) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common issues are inexpensive. Rarities include specific overprint varieties, errors, and high-value definitives, especially on cover. Condition is crucial.
How to Identify General Government (German Occupation of Poland) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying General Government (German Occupation of Poland) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Deutsches Reich' or 'General Gouvernement' inscriptions.
- 2 Many stamps feature the portrait of Adolf Hitler or German eagles.
- 3 Overprinted Polish stamps will show original Polish designs with German overprints.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are General Government stamps?
General Government stamps were issued by the German occupation administration in central Poland during World War II (1939-1944). They reflect the temporary administrative status of the territory under Nazi Germany.
Are General Government stamps valuable?
Most common General Government stamps have modest value, typically ranging from €0.50 to €5. However, certain overprint varieties, errors, high-denomination issues, and stamps on original covers can be significantly more valuable, reaching €50 to over €500.
How can I identify General Government stamps?
You can identify General Government stamps by inscriptions like 'Deutsches Reich' or 'General Gouvernement', the presence of German eagles or Adolf Hitler's portrait, or by overprints on original Polish stamps. For precise identification, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app.
Which catalogs list General Government stamps?
General Government stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and valuations.
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