Chefoo Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Chefoo (Yantai) Stamps
Chefoo, known today as Yantai, is a major port city situated on the Shandong Peninsula in East Asia. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this area was significant as a treaty port under the sphere of influence of various foreign powers, particularly Great Britain. Stamps issued for Chefoo often reflect this complex administrative history, sometimes appearing as local overprints on British or Chinese issues, with inscriptions frequently appearing in English alongside Chinese characters. The postal administration transitioned through various phases reflecting China's shifting political landscape, including periods of foreign control and eventual incorporation into the unified Chinese postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1893 – 1896
- Languages:
- English, Chinese
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Chefoo (Yantai) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Chefoo (Yantai) Stamp Series
Local Post Overprints (1893-1896)
Stamps issued by the Chefoo Local Post, often overprinted on contemporary Chinese Imperial Post or British issues, reflecting the foreign presence in the treaty port.
Chefoo Local Post Issues (1893-1896)
Definitive issues of the Chefoo Local Post, featuring designs specific to the port, typically with inscriptions in both English and Chinese.
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Chefoo (Yantai) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Chefoo stamps varies significantly based on the specific issue, overprint, condition, and rarity. Overprints on early Chinese Imperial Post stamps or rare varieties can command higher prices. Forgeries are known, so expert authentication is crucial for high-value items.
How to Identify Chefoo (Yantai) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Chefoo (Yantai) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CHEFOO' or 'LOCAL POST' overprints, often in English, on Chinese or British stamps.
- 2 Examine the design for Chinese characters alongside English inscriptions, typical of treaty port issues.
- 3 Pay attention to the watermark (if any) and perforation, which can help distinguish genuine issues from forgeries or later reprints.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chefoo stamps?
Chefoo stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the Chefoo Local Post, a postal administration operating in the treaty port of Chefoo (modern-day Yantai) in China during the late 19th century. These stamps often feature overprints on existing Chinese or British issues, reflecting the foreign influence in the region.
Are Chefoo stamps valuable?
Yes, Chefoo stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprints, specific varieties, or stamps in pristine condition. Common issues might range from $5 to $50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Their historical significance as treaty port issues also contributes to their desirability among collectors.
How can I identify Chefoo stamps?
To identify Chefoo stamps, look for the 'CHEFOO' or 'LOCAL POST' inscription, usually in English, often found as an overprint on stamps of China or Great Britain. You'll also typically see Chinese characters on the stamps. For precise identification and to verify authenticity, using a philatelic catalog or a stamp identifier app is highly recommended.
Which catalogs list Chefoo stamps?
Chefoo stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values, which are essential resources for collectors.
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