Japanese WWII Occupation of Java Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) Stamps
The Japanese Occupation of Java during World War II represents a brief but significant period in the postal history of the Dutch East Indies, situated in Maritime Southeast Asia. Following the swift conquest of the Netherlands East Indies by the Empire of Japan in 1942, the existing Dutch colonial postal administration was immediately superseded. Stamps issued during this occupation period primarily feature Japanese script alongside local language elements, reflecting the imposition of Japanese authority over the archipelago. This era marks a sharp administrative transition away from European colonial control, preceding the subsequent Indonesian National Revolution.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1943 – 1945
- Languages:
- Japanese, Malay, Indonesian
- Currency:
- NLG
- Parent issuer:
- Japan
Stamp Catalogs
Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) Stamp Series
Definitives with Japanese Inscriptions (1943-1945)
Overprinted Dutch East Indies stamps or new designs featuring Japanese script and local motifs.
Propaganda Issues (1943-1945)
Stamps designed to promote Japanese authority and the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere.
Postage Due Issues (1943-1945)
Stamps issued for collecting underpaid postage, often overprinted existing stock.
Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue, and overprint varieties. Unused stamps are generally more valuable than used. Forgeries and reprints exist, especially for higher value issues.
How to Identify Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) stamps:
- 1 Look for Japanese characters (Kanji) alongside or replacing Dutch text.
- 2 Stamps often feature local Indonesian motifs or portraits of Japanese leaders.
- 3 Many issues are overprints on existing Dutch East Indies stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Japanese WWII Occupation of Java stamps?
These are postage stamps issued during the Japanese occupation of the island of Java (part of the Dutch East Indies) between 1943 and 1945, following the Japanese invasion during World War II. They replaced the Dutch colonial postal system.
Are Japanese WWII Occupation of Java stamps valuable?
The value of these stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rare varieties, specific overprints, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds of dollars. Condition, rarity, and authenticity are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify Japanese WWII Occupation of Java stamps?
Look for Japanese script (Kanji) on the stamps, often alongside or over existing Dutch East Indies designs. Many feature local Indonesian imagery or Japanese propaganda themes. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify specific issues and learn more about them.
Which catalogs list Japanese WWII Occupation of Java stamps?
These stamps are comprehensively listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. They are typically found under 'Japanese Occupation Issues' or within the Indonesia/Dutch East Indies sections.
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