Local Issues 1945 Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional) Stamps
"Local Issues 1945" is not a sovereign country but rather a philatelic classification referring to provisional or emergency postal markings used across various regions immediately following the conclusion of World War II. These issues often arose in territories experiencing rapid administrative transitions, such as former Axis-occupied zones or newly liberated areas in Europe and Asia, where central postal authority was temporarily disrupted. Stamps from this category typically feature overprints or provisional designs reflecting the immediate local political reality, often displaying languages of the occupying or succeeding administration, or simple vernacular text. This period is characterized by a fragmented postal landscape as established colonial or national postal systems struggled to reassert control or transition to new governing powers.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central and Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Balkans
- Issuing period:
- 1945 – 1946
- Languages:
- German, French, Russian, English, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Serbo-Croatian
- Currency:
- issuer:local-issues-1945.overview.currencyValue
- issuer:local-issues-1945.overview.parentIssuer:
- issuer:local-issues-1945.overview.parentIssuerValue
Stamp Catalogs
Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional) Stamp Series
German Local Issues (Allied Occupation) (1945-1946)
Provisional issues from various German cities and regions under Allied control, often overprinted or with new designs, reflecting the immediate post-war administrative chaos before unified postal services were re-established.
Austrian Local Issues (Allied Occupation) (1945)
Stamps issued by local authorities in Austria, particularly in Vienna and other cities, before the re-establishment of a national postal administration under Allied occupation.
French Liberation Issues (1944-1945)
While technically starting in 1944, many local issues continued into 1945, particularly in areas liberated from German occupation, featuring provisional designs or overprints.
Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Local Issues 1945 stamps varies widely. Common types, especially those from larger cities or with higher print runs, are generally inexpensive. Rarer issues, often from smaller towns, with specific overprint varieties, or those used for a very short period, can command significant prices. Condition, cancellation, and specific catalog variations are crucial for valuation.
How to Identify Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional) stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints on existing stamps, often in local languages or indicating new administrative authorities (e.g., 'Stadtpost', 'Postamt', 'Provisorium').
- 2 Identify provisional designs, often crudely printed, reflecting immediate local needs rather than national standards.
- 3 Pay attention to the place of issue (city, town, region) which is often indicated on the stamp or by the overprint.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Local Issues 1945 stamps?
Local Issues 1945 refers to provisional or emergency postal stamps and markings used in various regions, primarily in Europe, immediately following World War II. These were issued by local authorities due to the disruption of central postal services and the rapid administrative changes in newly liberated or occupied territories.
Are Local Issues 1945 stamps valuable?
The value of Local Issues 1945 stamps varies significantly. Many common types are inexpensive, ranging from a few cents to a few euros. However, rare varieties, specific overprints, or issues from smaller, short-lived postal administrations can be quite valuable, sometimes fetching hundreds or even thousands of euros, especially in fine condition.
How can I identify Local Issues 1945 stamps?
Identifying Local Issues 1945 stamps involves looking for specific overprints, provisional designs, and indications of local issuing authorities. These stamps often reflect the immediate post-war political landscape. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to catalog entries and learn more about its origin and potential value.
Which catalogs list Local Issues 1945 stamps?
Local Issues 1945 stamps are extensively listed in major international catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. Michel is particularly comprehensive for European local issues. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, overprints, and valuations.
Not sure if your stamp is from Local Issues 1945 (Post-WWII Provisional)?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store