World War 1 Occupation Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About World War 1 Occupations Stamps
World War 1 Occupations refers not to a single sovereign entity but to numerous territories across Europe and the Middle East occupied by various Allied and Central Powers during the Great War. These occupations often resulted in provisional postal issues, known as "military mail" or "occupation issues," superseding the stamps of the former sovereign administration. The language on these stamps varied widely, reflecting the occupying force, such as German, French, Russian, or local languages under new administrative control. These issues are crucial markers of the geopolitical fragmentation and administrative transitions imposed by the conflict.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Central and Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Middle East
- Issuing period:
- 1914 – 1918
- Languages:
- German, French, Russian, English, Arabic, Polish, Romanian, Serbian, Turkish
- Currency:
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- issuer:world-war-1-occupations.overview.parentIssuer:
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Stamp Catalogs
World War 1 Occupations stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular World War 1 Occupations Stamp Series
German Occupation of Belgium (1914-1918)
Stamps of Belgium overprinted or new designs issued by the German occupying forces.
British Occupation of Mesopotamia (1914-1918)
Indian stamps overprinted 'I.E.F.' (Indian Expeditionary Force) and later 'Baghdad' or 'Mesopotamia'.
Austro-Hungarian Occupation of Serbia (1915-1918)
Stamps of Bosnia and Herzegovina overprinted for use in occupied Serbia.
World War 1 Occupations Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the specific occupation, rarity of the overprint or issue, condition, and whether it's on cover. Some provisional issues or errors can be extremely valuable.
How to Identify World War 1 Occupations Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying World War 1 Occupations stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints on existing stamps of the occupied territory or the occupying power, often indicating the new administration or 'Provisorium'.
- 2 Examine the language and design for symbols or text of the occupying force (e.g., German eagle, British 'I.E.F.').
- 3 Check for specific dates or periods of issue that align with the occupation timeline.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are World War 1 Occupation stamps?
World War 1 Occupation stamps are provisional postal issues used in territories occupied by various Allied and Central Powers during the Great War (1914-1918). These stamps often superseded the postal issues of the former sovereign administration and reflect the temporary control of the occupying force.
Are World War 1 Occupation stamps valuable?
The value of World War 1 Occupation stamps varies widely. Common issues can be inexpensive, ranging from €1 to €20. However, rare overprints, specific provisional issues, errors, or stamps on original covers can be highly valuable, reaching hundreds or even thousands of euros, especially those from less common or short-lived occupations.
How can I identify World War 1 Occupation stamps?
Identifying World War 1 Occupation stamps typically involves looking for overprints on existing stamps (e.g., 'Généralgouvernement Warschau' on German stamps for Poland, 'I.E.F.' on Indian stamps for Mesopotamia). New designs issued by the occupying power will feature their language and symbols. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly compare your stamp to known examples and determine its origin and potential value.
Which catalogs list World War 1 Occupation stamps?
Major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons extensively list World War 1 Occupation stamps. They are usually found within sections dedicated to the occupied country or under specific 'Occupation Issues' headings, often with detailed descriptions of the overprints and their varieties.
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