Japanese WWII Occupation of Sarawak Stamps
Japanese World War II Occupation issues for Sarawak originate from the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, specifically the region formerly administered by the Brooke dynasty. These provisional stamps were issued following the Japanese military conquest of British Malaya and Borneo in 1942, temporarily replacing the authority of the British colonial postal system.
- Issued stamps
- 1942–1942
- Region
- Asia, Southeast Asia
- Currency
- YEN
- Languages
- Japanese, English, Malay
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Japan
History and background
The stamps primarily feature Japanese script alongside English or local language text, reflecting the imposition of Japanese administration over the former protectorate. This period represents a brief but significant interruption in Sarawak's long history of British postal administration, ending with the re-establishment of British control after 1945.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for Japanese characters (大日本郵便 - Dai Nippon Yubin, meaning 'Great Japan Post') overprinted on existing Sarawak stamps.
- Examine the original Sarawak stamp design underneath the overprint, which often features portraits of the Brooke Rajahs or local scenes.
- Check for specific overprint types and colors, as these can vary and indicate different issues or forgeries.
Popular series
-
Overprinted Sarawak Stamps
1942
Existing Sarawak stamps overprinted with Japanese characters (Dai Nippon Yubin) and sometimes new values, signifying the change in administration.
-
Provisional Issues
1942
Stamps issued for temporary use, often utilizing existing stock with handstamped or printed overprints.
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+
Value depends heavily on the specific overprint, condition, and whether it's on cover. Forgeries are known, so expertization is crucial for higher-value items.
Catalogs. Japanese WWII Occupation of Sarawak 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 of Sarawak stamps
These are provisional postage stamps issued in 1942 for Sarawak, Borneo, following its occupation by Japanese forces during World War II. They typically consist of existing Sarawak stamps overprinted with Japanese characters and sometimes new denominations.
The value of these stamps varies significantly. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps on original covers can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition and authenticity are key factors.
Look for the distinctive Japanese overprints on Sarawak stamps. Pay attention to the specific characters, the original stamp design, and any new values. For a first lead, photograph the stamp in the Stamp Identifier app, then confirm the catalog number; valuable stamps deserve an expert opinion.
These stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott (under 'Japanese Occupation Issues' or 'Sarawak'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons (often under 'British Commonwealth - Japanese Occupation').
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