Japanese Occupation of South China Stamps
Japanese Occupation of South China refers to the postal administration established by the Empire of Japan across occupied territories in southern China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. These stamps were issued primarily between 1938 and 1945, superseding standard Chinese issues under military control.
- Issued stamps
- 1938–1945
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- CNY
- Languages
- Japanese, Chinese
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Japan
History and background
The stamps typically feature Japanese or bilingual inscriptions, often overprinted on existing Chinese currency denominations, reflecting the temporary nature of the administration. This postal system ceased operations following Japan's surrender in 1945, reverting control to the Republic of China.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for Japanese characters (e.g., '大日本郵便') overprinted on Chinese stamps.
- Examine the design for Japanese motifs or bilingual inscriptions (Japanese and Chinese characters).
- Check the dates of issue, typically between 1938 and 1945, for stamps used in South China.
- Note the currency denominations, which often reflect local Chinese currency or surcharges.
Popular series
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Overprints on Chinese Stamps
1938-1945
Existing Chinese Nationalist or Provincial stamps overprinted with Japanese characters (e.g., '大日本郵便' - 'Great Japan Post') or new values, often in local Chinese currency.
-
Definitives with Japanese Designs
1942-1945
Stamps featuring Japanese designs or motifs, sometimes with bilingual inscriptions, issued for use in the occupied territories.
-
Provisional Issues
1938-1945
Emergency issues or surcharges on existing stamps to meet immediate postal needs, reflecting the unstable wartime conditions.
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
- $0.50–$5
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$500+
Common overprinted issues are generally inexpensive. Rarer varieties include specific overprint errors, scarce denominations, or stamps used on cover. Condition, especially for overprints, significantly impacts value. Full sets and specific regional issues can command higher prices.
Catalogs. Japanese Occupation of South China 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 Japanese Occupation of South China stamps
Japanese Occupation of South China stamps are postage stamps issued by the Japanese military administration in parts of southern China during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1938-1945). These stamps often consist of existing Chinese stamps overprinted with Japanese characters or new designs reflecting Japanese authority.
The value of Japanese Occupation of South China stamps varies. Many common overprinted issues are relatively inexpensive, often ranging from $0.50 to $5. However, rare varieties, specific overprint errors, stamps on cover, or complete sets can be quite valuable, potentially reaching hundreds of dollars. Condition is a significant factor in determining value.
You can identify Japanese Occupation of South China stamps by looking for Japanese overprints on Chinese stamps, bilingual inscriptions (Japanese and Chinese), and designs that incorporate Japanese motifs. The period of issue (1938-1945) is also a key indicator. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
Japanese Occupation of South China stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for various issues from this period.
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