Japanese Occupation of Penang Stamps

Identification, history, popular series & stamp values

📸 Identify Stamp in App Check Stamp Value

About Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) Stamps

The Japanese Occupation of Penang, a territory in Southeast Asia, represents a brief but significant period within the broader history of the British Straits Settlements during World War II. Stamps issued under this administration reflect the temporary cessation of British postal authority following the Japanese conquest of Malaya in 1942. These provisional issues typically feature overprints or inscriptions in Japanese characters alongside English, marking a distinct administrative transition away from the Universal Postal Union standards previously upheld by the British. This era concluded with the restoration of Allied control in 1945, leading to the reintroduction of British colonial postal services.

Learn more: Wikipedia

Issuer Overview

Region:
Asia
Subregion:
Southeast Asia
Issuing period:
1942 – 1942
Languages:
Japanese, English
Currency:
Yen (Japanese Military)
Parent issuer:
Japan

Stamp Catalogs

Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:

✓ Scott Catalog
✓ Michel Catalog
✓ Stanley Gibbons Catalog

Popular Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) Stamp Series

Straits Settlements Overprints (1942)

British Straits Settlements stamps overprinted with Japanese characters and sometimes new values, issued during the initial occupation.

Malaya (Japanese Occupation) Issues (1942)

While Penang had specific overprints, it also used general issues for Malaya under Japanese occupation, often featuring Japanese designs or overprints on existing Malayan stamps.

issuer:japanese-wwii-occ-in-penang.series.items.2.name (issuer:japanese-wwii-occ-in-penang.series.items.2.period)

issuer:japanese-wwii-occ-in-penang.series.items.2.description

Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) Stamp Value Overview

Common stamps
$5 - $50
Rare stamps
$100 - $1,000+

Value Notes: Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, the underlying stamp, condition, and rarity of the surcharge or cancellation. Errors and varieties are highly sought after.

→ Check exact value with the app →

How to Identify Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) Stamps

Key features to look for when identifying Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII) stamps:

  • 1 Look for Japanese characters (Kanji) overprinted on existing Straits Settlements or Malayan stamps.
  • 2 Identify the original stamp's design and denomination, as the overprint often indicates the new administrative authority.
  • 3 Examine the overprint for specific Japanese military administration markings or new values.

Related Issuers & Topics

Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:

British Colonies British Military Administration Malaya Federated Malay States Japan Japanese Occupation of China Japanese Occupation of South China Japanese Occupation of Burma (WWII) Japanese Occupation of Java (WWII) Japanese Occupation of Johore (WWII) Japanese WWII Occupation of Kedah Japanese Occupation of Kelantan (WWII) Japanese Occupation of Malacca Japanese WWII Occupation of Negri Sembilan Japanese Occupation of North Borneo (WWII) Japanese Occupation of Pahang (WWII) Japanese WWII Occupation of Sarawak Japanese WWII Occupation of Selangor Japanese Occupation of Straits Settlements (WWII) Japanese WWII Occupation of Trengganu Japanese WWII Occupation of Malayan Postal Union Johore Kedah Kelantan Labuan Malacca (Melaka) Federation of Malaya Malayan States Malaysia Negeri Sembilan North Borneo Pahang (Federated Malay States) Penang (Pulau Pinang) Perak Perlis Sarawak Selangor Singapore Sungei Ujong Trengganu

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps?

Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps are postal issues used in the territory of Penang (part of the British Straits Settlements) during the brief period of Japanese military administration in 1942, following the Japanese conquest of Malaya in World War II. These stamps typically feature Japanese overprints on existing British colonial issues.

Are Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps valuable?

Yes, many Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps can be valuable, especially those with rare overprints, varieties, or in fine condition. Their historical significance and limited issuance period contribute to their collectibility. Prices can range from a few dollars for common types to hundreds or even thousands for rare errors or specific surcharges.

How can I identify Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps?

You can identify Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps by looking for Japanese characters (Kanji) overprinted on stamps originally issued for the Straits Settlements or Malaya. These overprints often indicate the Japanese military administration and sometimes new denominations. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known issues and verify its authenticity.

Which catalogs list Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps?

Japanese Occupation of Penang stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, varieties, and estimated values, under sections dedicated to the Japanese Occupation of Malaya or specific territories within it.

Not sure if your stamp is from Japanese Occupation of Penang (WWII)?

Identify it instantly with our iPhone app

Download on App Store