Japanese WWII Occupation in Johore Stamps
This entity represents a temporary postal administration within Southeast Asia, specifically the state of Johore, during the Japanese occupation of Malaya in World War II. Stamps issued under this authority reflect the brief but significant period of Imperial Japanese military control following the collapse of British colonial rule.
- Issued stamps
- 1944–1944
- Region
- Asia, Southeast Asia
- Currency
- Yen
- Languages
- Japanese, English, Malay
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Japan
History and background
Issues from this occupation typically feature Japanese script alongside English or Malay, marking a sharp transition from the previous Straits Settlements postal system. This administration was short-lived, ceasing with the end of the war and the subsequent return to British authority.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for Japanese characters (usually 'Dai Nippon Yubin' - Great Japan Post) overprinted on existing stamps of Straits Settlements or Malayan States.
- Check for specific overprint types and colors, as these distinguish different issues and can affect value.
- Examine the base stamp for its original design and country of origin (e.g., Straits Settlements, Kedah, Kelantan, Trengganu).
Popular series
-
Johore Overprints on Straits Settlements
1944
Stamps of the Straits Settlements overprinted with Japanese characters and sometimes new values, issued for use in Johore during the occupation.
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Johore Overprints on Malayan States
1944
Stamps of various Malayan states (e.g., Kedah, Kelantan, Trengganu) overprinted for use in Johore, often with Japanese characters and new denominations.
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+
Values vary significantly based on the base stamp used for the overprint, the specific overprint variety (e.g., type of Japanese characters, color), and condition. Errors and scarce varieties can command higher prices.
Catalogs. Japanese WWII Occupation in Johore 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 WWII Occupation in Johore stamps
These are postage stamps issued for use in the Malaysian state of Johore during the Japanese occupation of Malaya in World War II (1944). They typically feature Japanese overprints on existing stamps of the Straits Settlements or other Malayan states.
The value of these stamps varies. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rare varieties, specific overprint types, or stamps in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like the base stamp, overprint type, and condition significantly influence their worth.
Look for stamps of the Straits Settlements or other Malayan states that bear Japanese overprints, often including Japanese characters for 'Great Japan Post'. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
These stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under 'Malaya, Japanese Occupation'), Michel (under 'Malaya, Japanische Besetzung'), and Stanley Gibbons (under 'Malaya, Japanese Occupation'). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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