German Marshall Islands Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Marshall Islands Stamps
The German Marshall Islands are an island nation situated in the Micronesia subregion of Oceania, forming part of the larger island group known as the Marshall Islands. Postally, the territory was administered by the German Empire from the late 19th century until World War I, after which it became a Japanese mandate under the League of Nations. Stamps from the German period typically feature German text, while subsequent issues reflect the administrative changes leading to the current independent republic. The postal history is marked by transitions through German, Japanese, and later US administration, influencing the language and currency depicted on the issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Micronesia
- Issuing period:
- 1897 – 1919
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- Papiermark
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German Marshall Islands stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Marshall Islands Stamp Series
Yacht Issue (Hohenzollern Yacht) (1900-1919)
The definitive series for all German Colonies, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. These stamps were overprinted for use in the Marshall Islands.
Marshall Islands Overprints (1897-1899)
Early issues consisting of German Empire stamps overprinted with 'Marschall-Inseln' (Marshall Islands) and sometimes a new value.
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German Marshall Islands Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint, and denomination. Early overprints and higher denominations of the Yacht issue in fine condition are particularly sought after. Stamps with postal cancellations from specific islands can also command premiums.
How to Identify German Marshall Islands Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Marshall Islands stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Marschall-Inseln' overprint on German Empire stamps.
- 2 Identify the 'Hohenzollern Yacht' design with 'MARSCHALL-INSELN' at the top.
- 3 Check for German text and currency (Pfennig, Mark).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Marshall Islands stamps?
German Marshall Islands stamps are postage stamps issued for the Marshall Islands during the period of German colonial administration, from 1897 to 1919. They typically feature German Empire stamps overprinted for colonial use or the distinctive 'Hohenzollern Yacht' series with the territory's name.
Are German Marshall Islands stamps valuable?
Yes, many German Marshall Islands stamps can be valuable, especially early overprints, higher denominations of the Yacht issue, and stamps in fine condition or with rare cancellations. Common issues might be worth a few euros, while rare examples can fetch thousands. Their value is often assessed by condition, rarity, and historical significance.
How can I identify German Marshall Islands stamps?
You can identify German Marshall Islands stamps by looking for the 'Marschall-Inseln' overprint on German Empire stamps or the 'Hohenzollern Yacht' design with 'MARSCHALL-INSELN' at the top. The language will be German, and the currency will be in Pfennig or Mark. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app that can scan and recognize these unique features.
Which catalogs list German Marshall Islands stamps?
German Marshall Islands stamps are comprehensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under German Colonies), Michel (Germany and Colonies), and Stanley Gibbons (German States and Colonies). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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