German WWI Occupation in Belgium Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German WWI Occupation in Belgium Stamps
German WWI Occupation in Belgium refers to the postal administration established by the German Empire in occupied Belgian territory during the First World War, spanning 1914 to 1918. This region in Western Europe was governed under a military administration, leading to the issuance of provisional stamps overprinted on existing Belgian issues or entirely new definitive series. The stamps primarily feature German text alongside French and sometimes Dutch, reflecting the linguistic complexity of Belgium under foreign military control. This distinct postal entity ceased upon the Armistice and the restoration of Belgian sovereignty.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1914 – 1916
- Languages:
- German, French, Dutch
- Currency:
- BEF
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German WWI Occupation in Belgium stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German WWI Occupation in Belgium Stamp Series
Overprints on Belgian Issues (1914-1915)
Belgian stamps overprinted with 'Belgien' and new denominations in German currency.
Germania Issues (1916)
German Germania definitive stamps overprinted 'Belgien' for use in occupied territory.
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issuer:german-wwi-occupation-in-belgium.series.items.2.description
German WWI Occupation in Belgium Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Full sets and rare errors command higher prices.
How to Identify German WWI Occupation in Belgium Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German WWI Occupation in Belgium stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Belgien' overprints on Belgian or German stamps.
- 2 Examine the currency denominations, often in German Pfennig or Mark.
- 3 Check for German text alongside French and sometimes Dutch on the stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are German WWI Occupation in Belgium stamps?
These are stamps issued by the German military administration in occupied Belgian territory during World War I (1914-1918). They consist of Belgian stamps overprinted with German text and currency, or German stamps similarly overprinted for local use.
Are German WWI Occupation in Belgium stamps valuable?
The value of these stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few euros, while rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds of euros. Factors like cancellation, centering, and gum condition also play a significant role.
How can I identify German WWI Occupation in Belgium stamps?
Look for the 'Belgien' overprint, often accompanied by new German currency denominations (e.g., 'Pfennig', 'Mark'). Many are overprinted on existing Belgian stamps, while later issues are overprinted German Germania stamps. A stamp identifier app can help quickly identify these specific occupation issues.
Which catalogs list German WWI Occupation in Belgium stamps?
These stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott (under German Occupation issues), Michel (Germany and Colonies), and Stanley Gibbons (German Occupation Issues).
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