Hungary Stamps
1943
During World War II, the Kingdom of Hungary was a member of the Axis alliance. In 1938 Hungary adopted a policy similar to Germany's, attempting to incorporate ethnic Hungarian areas in neighboring countries into a greater Hungary. Hungary benefited territorially from its relationship with the Axis, settlements were negotiated regarding territorial disputes with the Czechoslovak Republic, the Slovak Republic, and the Kingdom of Romania. In 1940, Hungary joined the Axis powers. The following year, Hungarian forces participated in the invasion of Yugoslavia and the invasion of the Soviet Union.
While waging war against the Soviet Union, Hungary engaged in armistice negotiations with the Allied powers. Hitler discovered this betrayal, and in March 1944, German forces occupied Hungary. When Soviet forces began threatening Hungary, an armistice was signed between Hungary and the USSR by Regent Miklós Horthy. Soon afterward, Horthy's son was kidnapped by German commandos and Horthy was forced to revoke the armistice. The Regent was then deposed from power, while Hungarian fascist leader Ferenc Szálasi established a new government, with German backing. In 1945, Hungarian and German forces in Hungary were defeated by advancing Soviet armies. The remaining defenders finally surrendered 13 February 1945.
Michel 705 to 721
"Heroes, St. Stephen's Crown and Churches"
Issued: 1st Jan 1943 and featuring Heroes, St. Stephen's Crown and Churches. These stamps are printed perf 12¼ on watermarked paper.
Michel 722 to 730
"War Welfare Fund"
Issued: 15th Mar 1943 to raise funds for the War Welfare Fund. These stamps are printed on watermarked paper and perf 12.
Michel 731 to 734
"Horthy's Aviation Fund (IV)"
Issued: 17th Jul 1943 to raise funds for Horthy's Aviation Fund. These stamps are printed on watermarked paper and perf 12½:12.
Michel 735
"Death of István Horthy (II)"
Issued: 16th Aug 1943 to comemmorate the death of István Horthy. Printed on watermarked paper and perf 12:12½
Michel 736 to 741
"St. Stephen's Crown"
Issued: 1st Jan 1943 to 15th Dec 1944. These stamps are printed on watermarked paper and are perf 15.
Michel 742 to 744
"Christmas"
Issued: 1st Dec 1943 to celebrate Christmas. These stamps are printed on watermarked paper and perf 12:12½.
