Japanese Administration of Taiwan Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Japanese Administration of Taiwan Stamps
The Japanese Administration of Taiwan, spanning the island nation in East Asia, issued stamps during the period of Japanese colonial rule from 1895 to 1945. These issues primarily served to integrate the island's postal system into the Japanese Empire's network, often featuring overprints on existing Japanese stamps or entirely new designs. The stamps predominantly display Japanese characters and denominations, reflecting the official language and currency of the administering power. This distinct postal era concluded with the transfer of administration to the Republic of China following World War II, leading to the subsequent issuance of stamps by the Chinese authorities.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1895 – 1945
- Languages:
- Japanese
- Currency:
- JPY
- Parent issuer:
- Japan
Stamp Catalogs
Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Japanese Administration of Taiwan Stamp Series
Overprinted Japanese Stamps (1895-1900s)
Early issues often consisted of Japanese stamps overprinted with characters indicating their use in Taiwan, sometimes with new denominations.
Taiwanese Scenery and Culture Issues (1900s-1940s)
Later issues featured designs specific to Taiwan, depicting local landscapes, flora, fauna, and cultural elements, though still under Japanese administration.
Commemorative Issues (Various)
Commemorative stamps were issued for significant events or anniversaries, often mirroring themes found in contemporary Japanese issues but with Taiwanese context.
Japanese Administration of Taiwan Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Rarer issues, particularly early overprints, errors, or high-denomination unused stamps, can fetch significant prices. Condition is paramount, especially for older issues.
How to Identify Japanese Administration of Taiwan Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps:
- 1 Look for Japanese characters and denominations, often with additional overprints or inscriptions specific to Taiwan.
- 2 Designs frequently feature Japanese imperial symbols or Taiwanese specific imagery (e.g., Mount Yu Shan, local temples).
- 3 The period of issue (1895-1945) is a key indicator; stamps from before or after this period are not from this administration.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps?
Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps are postage stamps issued during the period of Japanese colonial rule over Taiwan, from 1895 to 1945. These stamps were used for postal services on the island and often featured Japanese designs, overprints on Japanese stamps, or unique designs reflecting Taiwanese culture under Japanese influence.
Are Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps valuable?
The value of Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps varies widely. Common issues are generally inexpensive, ranging from a few cents to a few dollars. However, rare early overprints, high-denomination stamps, errors, or stamps in pristine condition can be quite valuable, potentially fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance all play a role in determining their worth.
How can I identify Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps?
To identify Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps, look for Japanese characters and denominations. Many early issues are Japanese stamps with specific overprints for use in Taiwan. Later issues may depict Taiwanese scenery or cultural elements, but will still bear Japanese inscriptions. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app that can analyze your stamp's features.
Which catalogs list Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps?
Japanese Administration of Taiwan stamps are well-documented in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (often under Japan or Taiwan), the Michel Ostasien-Katalog, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (sometimes under Japan or Taiwan). Specialized Japanese and Taiwanese catalogs also provide detailed listings.
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