Japanese Occupation of China Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Japanese Occupation of China Stamps
Japanese Occupation of China refers to the period during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945) when large parts of Eastern China were under military administration by the Empire of Japan. Stamps issued during this time were primarily overprints or provisional issues on existing Chinese postal stationery, reflecting the temporary nature of Japanese control across various occupied zones. The linguistic environment on these issues is characterized by Japanese text alongside Chinese characters, often denoting puppet regimes or military postal services. These issues represent a complex transitional phase in Chinese postal history, preceding the full restoration of sovereignty after Japan's defeat in 1945.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1937 – 1945
- Languages:
- Japanese, Chinese
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Japanese Occupation of China stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Japanese Occupation of China Stamp Series
North China Overprints (1941-1945)
Chinese stamps overprinted with Japanese characters and new values for use in North China.
Central China Overprints (1941-1945)
Chinese stamps overprinted for use in the Central China occupied territories, often with 'Japanese Post' or similar inscriptions.
Mengkiang Issues (1941-1945)
Stamps issued specifically for the Mengkiang (Inner Mongolia) puppet state, sometimes overprinted on Chinese or Japanese issues.
Japanese Occupation of China Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies greatly depending on the specific occupied zone, overprint type, condition, and rarity. Provisional issues and specific error varieties can command high prices. Many common overprints are relatively inexpensive.
How to Identify Japanese Occupation of China Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Japanese Occupation of China stamps:
- 1 Look for Japanese characters (Kanji) overprinted on Chinese stamps, often indicating new values or postal administrations.
- 2 Identify the original Chinese stamp design underneath the overprint.
- 3 Note the specific overprint text, as it often indicates the region or puppet government (e.g., 'North China', 'Central China', 'Mengkiang').
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Japanese Occupation of China stamps?
Japanese Occupation of China stamps are postal issues used in parts of Eastern China under Japanese military administration during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945). They primarily consist of Chinese stamps overprinted with Japanese characters, new values, or inscriptions denoting the occupying power or puppet regimes.
Are Japanese Occupation of China stamps valuable?
The value of Japanese Occupation of China stamps varies widely. Common overprints can be found for a few dollars, while rare provisional issues, specific regional overprints, or stamps in pristine condition can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like rarity, condition, and the specific occupied zone significantly influence their market value.
How can I identify Japanese Occupation of China stamps?
You can identify Japanese Occupation of China stamps by looking for Japanese characters overprinted on existing Chinese stamp designs. These overprints often indicate the specific occupied region (e.g., North China, Central China) or a new postal value. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known issues and provide detailed information.
Which catalogs list Japanese Occupation of China stamps?
Japanese Occupation of China stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under 'Japanese Occupation Issues' or specific regions like 'Manchukuo'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed listings, historical context, and estimated values for these complex issues.
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