After the liberation of North Borneo from Japanese occupation in 1945, the British Military Administration (BMA) was established to manage the region until its transition to a Crown Colony in 1946. The BMA issued overprinted stamps using pre-war North Borneo issues, featuring the “BMA” overprint in bold letters. These stamps were used across British Borneo, including Labuan, Sarawak, and Brunei, for both local and overseas mail.
Historical Context:
North Borneo, including Labuan, was under Japanese occupation from January 1942 until Allied forces liberated the region in mid-1945. The interim administration, managed by Australian Imperial Forces, utilized existing stamp stocks with the overprint “BMA” to signify the new governance. These stamps became available on December 17, 1945, and were later replaced by Crown Colony issues in 1946.
Notable Stamps:
The overprinted series includes denominations ranging from 1 cent to 5 dollars, featuring classic North Borneo designs such as local fauna, scenic views, and iconic structures. Some of the rarer varieties include:
- 1 cent green and red-brown with “ant trail” flaw (a printing irregularity that commands a premium among collectors).
- 2 cents purple and greenish-blue with double overprint (highly rare and sought after).
- 25 cents green and chocolate with double vignette (another standout variety).
Collectors’ Insights:
These stamps, though modest in their regular forms, are prized for certain printing errors and overprint varieties. For instance, the “double overprint” on the 2-cent value and the “albino vignette” error on the 25-cent value represent key finds for philatelists. Complete sets in mint condition are also highly valued.
Estimated Values:
Based on a prominent philatelic source:
- Common values like the 3-cent slate-blue and green are moderately priced, while rare varieties, such as the 2-cent double overprint, can fetch thousands of pounds.
- The complete set of 15 stamps in mint condition has an estimated value of over £170, highlighting its appeal among collectors.
The British Military Administration overprints are a tangible piece of history, symbolizing the transitional governance of North Borneo after World War II. Whether for historical appreciation or philatelic pursuits, these stamps remain a cornerstone of British Borneo’s postal legacy.