Indonesia 1950 'RIS' Overprint on Numeral Stamps

Indonesia · 1950 · Various

This series consists of seven definitive numeral stamps originally issued by the Dutch Indies, which were subsequently overprinted with 'RIS' in black or red ink. The overprint signifies the transition to the new Republic of the United States of Indonesia (Republik Indonesia Serikat). The base stamps feature a simple, elegant design with the denomination prominently displayed in the center.

Issued in early 1950, these overprints mark the brief period of the federal Republic of the United States of Indonesia, which was formed after the Dutch formally transferred sovereignty in December 1949 and lasted until August 1950 when Indonesia became a unitary state.