Japanese WWII Occupation in Straits Settlements Stamps

Identification, history, popular series & stamp values

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About Japanese Occupation of Straits Settlements (WWII) Stamps

This entity represents the postal administration established by the Empire of Japan during its military occupation of the Straits Settlements in Southeast Asia during World War II. Following the swift capture of these British colonies, Japanese authorities issued provisional surcharges and distinctive stamps to replace the existing British colonial issues. These stamps predominantly feature Japanese text alongside English, reflecting the imposition of Japanese military rule over the former British territories. The issues are historically significant as they mark a brief but distinct interruption in the established British postal system before the region's eventual return to Allied control.

Learn more: Wikipedia

Issuer Overview

Region:
Asia
Subregion:
Southeast Asia
Issuing period:
1942 – 1944
Languages:
Japanese, English
Currency:
Yen (Japanese Military Yen)
Parent issuer:
Japan

Stamp Catalogs

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

✓ Scott Catalog
✓ Michel Catalog
✓ Stanley Gibbons Catalog

Popular Japanese Occupation of Straits Settlements (WWII) Stamp Series

Provisional Surcharges on Straits Settlements Stamps (1942)

Existing Straits Settlements stamps overprinted with Japanese text and new values, often in cents or dollars, reflecting the new administration's currency.

Japanese Occupation Issues (Pictorials) (1942-1944)

Stamps specifically designed and issued by the Japanese occupation authorities, often featuring Japanese motifs or local scenes with Japanese inscriptions.

Malaya Japanese Occupation Issues (General) (1942-1945)

While not exclusively for Straits Settlements, some general issues for occupied Malaya were used in the former Straits Settlements territories.

Japanese Occupation of Straits Settlements (WWII) Stamp Value Overview

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

Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint, and rarity of the base stamp for surcharges. Complete sets and specific errors or varieties can command higher prices. Stamps used on cover are particularly sought after.

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How to Identify Japanese Occupation of Straits Settlements (WWII) Stamps

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

  • 1 Look for Japanese characters (Kanji) overprinted on existing Straits Settlements stamps or as part of the design on new issues.
  • 2 Check for the year '2602' (Japanese calendar for 1942) or other Japanese dates.
  • 3 Many issues feature a distinctive 'chop' or overprint in red or black ink.

Related Issuers & Topics

Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:

British Colonies British Military Administration Malaya British Military Administration (BMA) 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 Occupation of Penang (WWII) Japanese WWII Occupation of Sarawak Japanese WWII Occupation of Selangor 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 WWII Occupation in Straits Settlements stamps?

These are postage stamps issued by the Empire of Japan during its military occupation of the British Straits Settlements (Singapore, Penang, Malacca) between 1942 and 1944. They include provisional surcharges on existing Straits Settlements stamps and new issues specifically designed by the Japanese administration.

Are Japanese WWII Occupation in Straits Settlements stamps valuable?

The value of these stamps varies. Common surcharges can be found for a few dollars, while rarer overprints, specific varieties, or stamps on cover can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition plays a significant role in their market value.

How can I identify Japanese WWII Occupation in Straits Settlements stamps?

Look for Japanese text (Kanji) overprinted on stamps originally from the Straits Settlements, or entirely new stamp designs featuring Japanese characters and motifs. Many have distinct red or black overprints. For precise identification and catalog numbers, use a stamp identifier app or consult a specialized catalog.

Which catalogs list Japanese WWII Occupation in Straits Settlements stamps?

These stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott (under 'Japanese Occupation of Malaya' or 'Straits Settlements'), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons (often under 'Malaya, Japanese Occupation'). Specialized catalogs for Japanese occupation issues also provide detailed listings.

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