The stamps of 1949, overprinted with “RIS,” provide a fascinating glimpse into a critical moment in Indonesian history. This complete set commemorates the Republic of the United States of Indonesia (RIS), a transitional federal state formed as part of Indonesia’s post-independence restructuring. These overprinted issues mark the brief existence of RIS, which lasted less than a year before the country unified into the Republic of Indonesia in August 1950.
Historical Significance:
The Republic of the United States of Indonesia (Indonesian: Republik Indonesia Serikat, RIS), abbreviated as RUSI, was officially established on 27 December 1949. This was the result of the Dutch Indonesian Round Table Conference, where the Netherlands formally transferred sovereignty over the Dutch East Indies (excluding West Papua) to Indonesia. The transfer ended a four-year conflict between Indonesian nationalists and the Dutch following Indonesia’s proclamation of independence in 1945.
The RIS was envisioned as a federal state, granting autonomy to its constituent territories. However, the federal system was short-lived, as it faced strong resistance from Indonesian nationalists advocating for a centralized government. By 17 August 1950, the RIS was dissolved, and the unitary Republic of Indonesia was declared.
The RIS Overprinted Stamps:
To signify the creation of the federal state, existing 1949 stamps were overprinted with “RIS” (short for Republik Indonesia Serikat). These stamps were issued across the newly established federal territories, symbolizing the transition to sovereign governance.
Features of the Stamps:
- Denominations: The set includes a wide range of values, from low sen denominations (1, 2, 3, etc.) to high-value rupiah denominations (1, 2, 5, 10, and 25 rupiah).
- Designs:
- Lower value sen stamps primarily feature decorative motifs and patterns.
- Higher-value rupiah stamps showcase iconic Indonesian cultural elements, such as traditional architecture, statues, and religious landmarks, reflecting the nation’s rich heritage.
A Collector’s Perspective:
The RIS overprints are significant not only as postal issues but also as historical artifacts. Their limited period of use—spanning only a few months—adds to their rarity and appeal for collectors. Complete sets, particularly in mint condition, are sought after for their historical and philatelic value. Each stamp tells a story of transition and unification, embodying a key chapter in Indonesia’s post-colonial history.
A Moment in History:
The Republic of the United States of Indonesia represented a compromise between Dutch colonial interests and Indonesian nationalist aspirations. Though short-lived, it played a pivotal role in Indonesia’s eventual emergence as a unified, independent nation. The RIS overprinted stamps stand as a tangible reminder of this transitional phase, bridging the gap between colonial administration and national sovereignty.
These stamps are more than just collectibles; they are a testament to the resilience of the Indonesian people and their determination to forge a unified identity after centuries of colonial rule. They remain a cherished piece of history for philatelists and history enthusiasts alike.