Manchukuo Stamps
Manchukuo was a Japanese puppet state established in Northeast Asia, encompassing territory primarily in Manchuria. Its postal system operated under Japanese administration from 1932 until 1945, reflecting its status as a client state rather than a fully sovereign entity within the Universal Postal Union.
- Issued stamps
- 1932–1945
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- JPY
- Languages
- Chinese, Japanese
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- Japan
About Manchukuo stamps
Stamps issued during this period predominantly feature Chinese characters alongside Japanese script, often utilizing the Japanese yen as currency. The postal administration ceased operations following the Soviet invasion and subsequent collapse of the state at the end of World War II.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Manchukuo stamps
- Look for inscriptions in both Chinese characters (often traditional) and Japanese script (Kanji and sometimes Katakana).
- Many stamps feature the Imperial Orchid Crest of Manchukuo.
- Currency denominations are typically in Fen (分) and Yuan (圓), reflecting the Japanese Yen system.
- Early issues often depict landscapes, imperial buildings, or portraits of Emperor Puyi.
Popular series
-
First Anniversary of the Founding of Manchukuo
1933
Commemorative issue featuring the Imperial Palace and various symbols of the new state.
-
Coronation of Emperor Kangde (Puyi)
1934
Stamps issued to celebrate the enthronement of Puyi as Emperor of Manchukuo, often depicting his portrait or imperial regalia.
-
Definitive Issues with Imperial Crest
1935-1945
Regular definitive stamps featuring the orchid crest of Manchukuo, often with various scenic or symbolic designs.
-
Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere
1942-1945
Issues reflecting Manchukuo's role within Japan's wartime propaganda, often depicting shared ideals or symbols.
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
- $0.50–$10
- Scarce stamps
- $50–$1,000+
Common Manchukuo stamps are generally inexpensive. Rarer issues, particularly early commemoratives, imperforate varieties, or those with significant errors, can fetch substantial prices. Condition plays a crucial role, with mint never-hinged examples commanding higher values.
Catalogs. Manchukuo 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 Manchukuo stamps
Manchukuo stamps were issued by the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo, which existed in Northeast Asia from 1932 to 1945. These stamps reflect the political and cultural influence of Japan, often featuring dual Chinese and Japanese inscriptions.
While many common Manchukuo stamps are relatively inexpensive, certain issues can be quite valuable. These include early commemorative sets, specific definitive printings, imperforate varieties, and stamps with significant errors or rare cancellations. Rarity, condition, and historical significance are key factors in determining value.
Manchukuo stamps can be identified by their dual inscriptions in Chinese and Japanese, the presence of the Imperial Orchid Crest, and denominations in Fen and Yuan. Visual cues often include portraits of Emperor Puyi, local landscapes, or symbols of the state. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Manchukuo stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.