Japanese WWII Occupation of Hong Kong Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong (WWII) Stamps
This entity represents the postal administration established in Hong Kong during the Japanese occupation of East Asia in the Second World War. Geographically situated in East Asia, this administration superseded the British colonial postal system following the fall of the territory in late 1941. Stamps issued under this authority primarily feature Japanese characters alongside English, reflecting the temporary military control over the former Crown Colony. This period marks a distinct, albeit brief, interruption in Hong Kong's long history as a major international postal hub under British administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1945 – 1945
- Languages:
- Japanese, English
- Currency:
- JPY
- Parent issuer:
- Japan
Stamp Catalogs
Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong (WWII) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong (WWII) Stamp Series
Overprinted Hong Kong Stamps (1945)
British Hong Kong stamps overprinted with Japanese characters, often '大日本郵便' (Dai Nippon Yubin - Great Japan Post) and a value in Japanese currency.
Japanese Definitive Stamps (1945)
Japanese definitive stamps used in Hong Kong, sometimes with local cancellations.
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Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong (WWII) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value varies significantly based on the specific overprint, condition, and cancellation. Overprinted Hong Kong stamps are generally more sought after than Japanese definitives used in the territory. Forgeries of overprints exist.
How to Identify Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong (WWII) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Japanese Occupation of Hong Kong (WWII) stamps:
- 1 Look for Japanese characters, particularly '大日本郵便' (Dai Nippon Yubin), overprinted on British Hong Kong stamps.
- 2 Examine cancellations for Japanese postmarks or Hong Kong postmarks from the occupation period (December 1941 - August 1945).
- 3 Note the currency denomination, which would typically be in Japanese Yen or Sen, even if overprinted on a Hong Kong dollar/cent stamp.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Japanese WWII Occupation of Hong Kong stamps?
These are stamps used in Hong Kong during the Japanese occupation from December 1941 to August 1945. They primarily consist of British Hong Kong stamps overprinted with Japanese characters and values, or Japanese definitive stamps used within the occupied territory.
Are Japanese WWII Occupation of Hong Kong stamps valuable?
The value of these stamps can range from a few dollars for common examples to several hundred or even thousands for rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps with significant historical cancellations. Condition and authenticity of overprints are crucial factors.
How can I identify Japanese WWII Occupation of Hong Kong stamps?
Look for British Hong Kong stamps bearing Japanese overprints, typically '大日本郵便' (Dai Nippon Yubin) and new Japanese currency values. Japanese definitive stamps used in Hong Kong during this period are also part of this category. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the origin and details of these unique occupation issues.
Which catalogs list Japanese WWII Occupation of Hong Kong stamps?
These stamps are listed in major international catalogs such as Scott (under Hong Kong or Japan, often with specific occupation listings), Michel (under Japan or Hong Kong), and Stanley Gibbons (under Hong Kong, with specific sections for the occupation period).
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