German WWII Occupation in France Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German WWII Occupation in France Stamps
German WWII Occupation in France, spanning Western Europe, represents a unique and brief period in postal history where the German Reich administration controlled postal services in occupied territories. Stamps issued during this era primarily reflect the military occupation and feature German administrative control, often superseding or coexisting with Vichy French issues. The primary linguistic environment on these specific occupation issues is German, though French denominations or language may occasionally appear depending on the specific zone or period of administration. This postal entity ceased to exist with the liberation of France and the reestablishment of the French national postal authority.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Western Europe
- Issuing period:
- 1940 – 1944
- Languages:
- German, French
- Currency:
- RM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany (Third Reich)
Stamp Catalogs
German WWII Occupation in France stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German WWII Occupation in France Stamp Series
General Government Issues (Overprints) (1940-1944)
Stamps of Germany overprinted for use in occupied territories, including some areas of France.
Local Issues (Alsace, Lorraine) (1940-1944)
Specific issues for annexed territories like Alsace and Lorraine, often featuring German designs or overprints on French stamps.
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German WWII Occupation in France Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies greatly depending on the specific issue, overprint, condition, and whether it's a general occupation issue or a more localized one (e.g., Alsace-Lorraine). Covers and postal history from this period can be particularly valuable.
How to Identify German WWII Occupation in France Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German WWII Occupation in France stamps:
- 1 Look for German language inscriptions or overprints on French stamps.
- 2 Identify German eagle or swastika emblems on stamps issued during this period.
- 3 Note the period of issue (1940-1944) and geographical context (occupied France, especially Alsace-Lorraine).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German WWII Occupation in France stamps?
These are stamps issued or used under the administration of the German Reich in occupied French territories during World War II, primarily between 1940 and 1944. They often feature German designs, overprints on German or French stamps, or specific issues for annexed regions like Alsace and Lorraine.
Are German WWII Occupation in France stamps valuable?
The value of these stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few Euros, while rare overprints, specific local issues, or stamps on cover with significant postal history can fetch hundreds or even thousands of Euros. Condition is also a major factor in determining value.
How can I identify German WWII Occupation in France stamps?
Look for German inscriptions, overprints, or symbols (like the eagle or swastika) on stamps from the 1940-1944 period. Pay attention to the specific region of issue, as some were for general occupation while others were for annexed territories. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly identify these stamps by scanning them.
Which catalogs list German WWII Occupation in France stamps?
These stamps are comprehensively listed in major international catalogs such as Michel (especially for German and European issues), Scott, and Stanley Gibbons. Specialized catalogs for German occupation issues may also provide more detailed listings.
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