German WWII Occupation of Lithuania Stamps
The German World War II Occupation of Lithuania, spanning from 1941 to 1944, represents a brief but significant period within Eastern European postal history. During this time, the territory was administered as part of Reichskommissariat Ostland by Nazi Germany, leading to the issuance of provisional stamps overprinted on existing Lithuanian issues or entirely new definitive series.
- Issued stamps
- 1941–1941
- Region
- Europe, Eastern Europe
- Currency
- RM
- Languages
- German, Lithuanian
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Germany
History and background
The language appearing on these occupational issues was predominantly German, reflecting the administrative control, though some local language elements might occasionally be present. This era marks a sharp interruption in the independent postal continuity of Lithuania, preceding its re-incorporation into the Soviet Union.
Further reading: Wikipedia
Inscriptions to look for
Words printed on the stamp that point to this issuer. Search any of them in the issuer directory.
- DEUTSCHE BESETZUNG
- OSTLAND
How to identify them
- Look for overprints such as 'DEUTSCHE BESETZUNG' or 'OSTLAND' in German on existing Lithuanian stamps.
- Examine the dates (1941) and the German language used for denominations or inscriptions.
- Identify the original Lithuanian stamp design underneath the occupation overprint.
Popular series
-
Overprints on Lithuanian Stamps
1941
Lithuanian definitive and commemorative stamps overprinted with 'DEUTSCHE BESETZUNG' (German Occupation) or 'OSTLAND' and new denominations.
-
Vilnius City Issues
1941
Provisional issues for the city of Vilnius, often featuring local overprints or designs, reflecting immediate administrative needs.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- €5–€50
- Scarce stamps
- €100–€1,000+
Value varies significantly based on the specific overprint, underlying Lithuanian stamp, condition, and rarity of the issue. Errors or specific varieties can command higher prices. Complete sets or covers are generally more valuable.
Catalogs. German WWII Occupation of Lithuania stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about German WWII Occupation of Lithuania stamps
These are stamps issued during the brief German occupation of Lithuania in 1941, part of the Reichskommissariat Ostland. They typically consist of existing Lithuanian stamps overprinted with German text and new denominations, or occasionally new provisional issues, reflecting the German administration.
The value of these stamps can vary widely. Common issues might be worth a few euros, while rare overprints, errors, or stamps in pristine condition, especially on cover, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of euros. Their historical significance also contributes to their collectibility.
Look for German overprints like 'DEUTSCHE BESETZUNG' or 'OSTLAND' on stamps that clearly show original Lithuanian designs. The period of issue is strictly 1941. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
German WWII Occupation of Lithuania stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel (especially comprehensive for German and occupied territories), and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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