German WWII Occupation in Kurland Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German WWII Occupation in Kurland Stamps
German WWII Occupation in Kurland refers to a specific, temporary postal administration established in the Courland region of Latvia during the Second World War. This area, located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, was under the military control of Nazi Germany following the invasion of the Soviet Union. Stamps issued for this occupation typically bear German inscriptions, often reflecting the military nature of the administration and the temporary cessation of normal Soviet postal services. The postal history is intrinsically linked to the shifting front lines of the Eastern Front, ending abruptly with the encirclement and eventual surrender of German forces in the Courland Pocket in 1945.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Europe
- Subregion:
- Baltic States
- Issuing period:
- 1945 – 1945
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- RM
- Parent issuer:
- Germany
Stamp Catalogs
German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German WWII Occupation in Kurland Stamp Series
Courland Provisionals (1945)
Stamps of the German Reich overprinted with 'Kurland' or other local handstamps, often crudely applied, reflecting the desperate conditions of the besieged forces.
Local Issues (1945)
Some sources mention very localized, unofficial issues or postal stationery used within the Courland Pocket, though these are often highly speculative and rare.
issuer:german-wwii-occ-in-kurland.series.items.2.name (issuer:german-wwii-occ-in-kurland.series.items.2.period)
issuer:german-wwii-occ-in-kurland.series.items.2.description
German WWII Occupation in Kurland Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of these stamps is highly dependent on authenticity, condition, and the specific overprint or issue. Forgeries are common, and genuine examples from this short-lived and chaotic period are scarce, especially on cover. Expertization is often required.
How to Identify German WWII Occupation in Kurland Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Kurland' overprints on stamps of the German Reich (e.g., Hitler Head issues).
- 2 Examine the overprint for authenticity; many forgeries exist. Genuine overprints often show variations due to their improvised nature.
- 3 Check for postmarks from towns within the Courland Pocket (e.g., Libau, Windau) during early 1945.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps?
German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps refer to postal issues used by German forces and the civilian population within the besieged Courland Pocket in Latvia during the final months of World War II (1945). These were typically German Reich stamps overprinted with 'Kurland' or other local markings, reflecting the temporary and isolated postal administration.
Are German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps valuable?
Yes, genuine German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps can be quite valuable, especially those on cover or with clear, authentic postmarks. Their rarity stems from the short period of use, the chaotic wartime conditions, and the limited quantities produced. However, the market is also rife with forgeries, so expert authentication is crucial for higher-value items.
How can I identify German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps?
To identify German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps, look for German Reich stamps, particularly those from the Hitler Head series, bearing overprints such as 'Kurland'. Pay close attention to the details of the overprint, as many fakes exist. Consulting specialized catalogs like Michel and comparing with known genuine examples is essential. A stamp identifier app can help with initial recognition but expert opinion is recommended for definitive authentication.
Which catalogs list German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps?
German WWII Occupation in Kurland stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Michel (Germany specialized catalogs), Scott (under Germany or Occupation Issues), and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for these specific issues.
Not sure if your stamp is from German WWII Occupation in Kurland?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store