German WWII Occupation in Alsace Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German WWII Occupation in Alsace Stamps
German WWII Occupation in Alsace refers to the period during the Second World War when this region of northeastern France was annexed by Nazi Germany. The postal history during this time is characterized by provisional issues used under the German military administration, often featuring German language text and currency reflecting the occupation status. These stamps represent a brief, politically charged interruption in the normal French postal service, marking a transition from French sovereignty to German control before the region's eventual liberation and return to France.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1940 – 1940
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- RM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German WWII Occupation in Alsace Stamp Series
Alsace Provisional Issues (1940)
Stamps of France overprinted with 'ELSAẞ' or 'DEUTSCHES REICH' and new denominations, or German stamps used locally.
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issuer:german-wwii-occ-in-alsace.series.items.2.name (issuer:german-wwii-occ-in-alsace.series.items.2.period)
issuer:german-wwii-occ-in-alsace.series.items.2.description
German WWII Occupation in Alsace Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and whether it's a genuine usage. Forgeries and unofficial overprints are common, requiring expert authentication for higher-value items.
How to Identify German WWII Occupation in Alsace Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps:
- 1 Look for French stamps (e.g., Ceres, Sower types) with German overprints like 'ELSAẞ' or 'DEUTSCHES REICH'.
- 2 Check for German stamps (e.g., Hindenburg, Hitler head issues) used with Alsatian postmarks from 1940.
- 3 Pay attention to the type and font of the overprint, as many unofficial or forged overprints exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps?
German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps refer to the postal issues used in the Alsace region of France during its annexation by Nazi Germany in 1940. These typically include French stamps overprinted with German text and currency, or German stamps used in the region, reflecting the temporary German administration.
Are German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps valuable?
The value of German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps varies significantly. Common provisional issues can be moderately priced (€5-€50), while rare varieties, specific overprints, or genuinely used covers can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Authenticity is crucial, as forgeries are prevalent.
How can I identify German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps?
To identify German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps, look for French stamps bearing German overprints such as 'ELSAẞ' or 'DEUTSCHES REICH', often with new denominations. Also, German stamps used with Alsatian postmarks from 1940 are part of this philatelic area. For precise identification and authentication, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps?
German WWII Occupation in Alsace stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott (under France - German Occupation), Michel (under Germany - Occupation Issues), and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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