British Middle East Forces Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About British Middle East Forces Stamps
British Middle East Forces (BMEF) stamps were issued across a vast geographical region spanning the Middle East and parts of Africa, primarily serving military personnel and associated civilian staff during and immediately following World War II. These issues were administered by the British military postal service, operating under the authority of the British Colonial Office rather than as independent national entities. The stamps generally featured English text, often denominated in British currency, and their usage ceased as these territories transitioned to independent national postal administrations following the dismantling of the British military presence in the region.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Middle East
- Subregion:
- Levant, North Africa, Arabian Peninsula
- Issuing period:
- 1942 – 1943
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- GBP
- Parent issuer:
- United Kingdom
Stamp Catalogs
British Middle East Forces stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular British Middle East Forces Stamp Series
Overprinted Great Britain Issues (1942-1943)
British definitive stamps overprinted 'M.E.F.' (Middle East Forces) for use by military personnel.
Overprinted Egyptian Issues (1942-1943)
Egyptian definitive stamps overprinted 'M.E.F.' for use in areas under British military administration.
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British Middle East Forces Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the base stamp overprinted, the specific overprint variety, condition, and rarity of the original issue. Errors or specific printings can command higher prices.
How to Identify British Middle East Forces Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying British Middle East Forces stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'M.E.F.' overprint, typically in black, on stamps of Great Britain or Egypt.
- 2 Examine the base stamp to determine its origin and denomination.
- 3 Check for variations in the overprint's font, size, and position, as these can indicate different printings or errors.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are British Middle East Forces stamps?
British Middle East Forces (BMEF) stamps were British or Egyptian postage stamps overprinted 'M.E.F.' (Middle East Forces) for use by British military personnel and associated civilians in various territories across the Middle East and North Africa during and immediately after World War II (1942-1943).
Are British Middle East Forces stamps valuable?
The value of British Middle East Forces stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few pounds, while rarer overprints, specific base stamps, or varieties can fetch hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Condition, centering, and the specific overprint type are key factors in determining value.
How can I identify British Middle East Forces stamps?
You can identify British Middle East Forces stamps by looking for the distinctive 'M.E.F.' overprint on stamps originally issued by Great Britain or Egypt. Pay attention to the base stamp's design, watermarks, and perforations. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can analyze your stamp and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list British Middle East Forces stamps?
British Middle East Forces stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Stanley Gibbons (particularly the Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue), Scott, and Michel. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, printings, and estimated values.
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