Japanese WWII Occupation of Sumatra Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Japanese Occupation of Sumatra (WWII) Stamps
Sumatra, located in Maritime Southeast Asia, was occupied by the Empire of Japan during the Second World War, leading to the issuance of provisional postage stamps. These issues replaced the previous Dutch colonial postal system, reflecting the temporary military administration established by the Japanese forces. Stamps from this period predominantly feature Japanese script alongside local language elements or denominations reflecting the occupied currency system. This brief but significant period marks a transition between Dutch colonial rule and the subsequent Indonesian struggle for independence.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- Southeast Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1943 – 1943
- Languages:
- Japanese, Malay
- Currency:
- Guilder (occupied currency)
- Parent issuer:
- Japan
Stamp Catalogs
Japanese Occupation of Sumatra (WWII) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Japanese Occupation of Sumatra (WWII) Stamp Series
Provisional Overprints on Netherlands Indies Stamps (1943)
Existing Dutch East Indies stamps overprinted with Japanese characters or new denominations, often crudely applied.
Japanese Military Administration Issues (1943)
Stamps specifically issued by the Japanese military administration, featuring Japanese script and sometimes local imagery.
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Japanese Occupation of Sumatra (WWII) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and rarity of the base stamp. Forgeries and unofficial overprints are common, requiring expert authentication. Complete sets and covers are more valuable.
How to Identify Japanese Occupation of Sumatra (WWII) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Japanese Occupation of Sumatra (WWII) stamps:
- 1 Look for Japanese characters (Kanji) overprinted on Netherlands Indies stamps.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for its original design and watermarks.
- 3 Check for signs of genuine overprinting vs. forged additions (ink type, sharpness, placement).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Japanese WWII Occupation of Sumatra stamps?
These are provisional postage stamps issued during the Japanese occupation of Sumatra (part of the Netherlands Indies) in 1943. They typically consist of existing Dutch East Indies stamps overprinted with Japanese characters or new denominations, reflecting the temporary military administration.
Are Japanese WWII Occupation of Sumatra stamps valuable?
The value of these stamps varies significantly. Common overprints on readily available base stamps might be in the $5-$50 range. However, rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps on cover can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Authenticity is a major factor, as forgeries are prevalent.
How can I identify Japanese WWII Occupation of Sumatra stamps?
Look for Japanese characters overprinted on stamps originally issued for the Netherlands Indies. Pay attention to the specific overprint design, the underlying stamp, and any local language elements. For precise identification and authentication, using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Japanese WWII Occupation of Sumatra stamps?
These stamps are listed in major international catalogs such as Scott (under 'Netherlands Indies' or 'Japanese Occupation'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. Specialized catalogs for Japanese occupation issues or Netherlands Indies might provide more detailed listings and varieties.
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