China Empire Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About China Empire Stamps
The China Empire, spanning East Asia, maintained a complex postal history marked by the late introduction of a modern postal system under the Qing Dynasty, which began issuing definitive stamps in 1878. While the official language was Manchu and Chinese, stamps primarily featured Chinese characters, often alongside English or French during periods of significant foreign influence and treaty ports. The postal administration navigated intense geopolitical pressures, including foreign concessions and the eventual collapse of the imperial system, leading to numerous provisional issues and administrative transitions that complicate the philatelic record of this era.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1878 – 1949
- Languages:
- Chinese, Manchu, English, French
- Currency:
- CNY
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Stamp Catalogs
China Empire stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular China Empire Stamp Series
Large Dragons (1878-1885)
China's first definitive stamps, featuring a dragon design, printed by the Shanghai Customs Statistical Department. Highly sought after.
Small Dragons (1885-1888)
A smaller format of the dragon design, printed by the Shanghai Customs, with various perforations.
Dowager Empress Birthday Commemoratives (1894)
Issued for the 60th birthday of Empress Dowager Cixi, featuring various imperial symbols like the dragon and phoenix.
China Empire Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of China Empire stamps varies greatly. Early issues, especially the Large Dragons and rare varieties or errors, command very high prices. Later definitive issues and common commemoratives are more affordable. Condition, cancellations, and specific printings are crucial for valuation.
How to Identify China Empire Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying China Empire stamps:
- 1 Look for Chinese characters, often alongside English or French inscriptions.
- 2 Early issues frequently depict dragons, phoenixes, or imperial symbols.
- 3 Many stamps from this era have overprints, indicating changes in postal administration or currency.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are China Empire stamps?
China Empire stamps refer to the postage stamps issued by the Qing Dynasty of China, primarily from 1878 until the collapse of the imperial system in 1912, though the 'China Empire' period in philately often extends to 1949 to encompass the broader historical context leading to the People's Republic of China. These stamps represent the early development of a modern postal system in China.
Are China Empire stamps valuable?
Yes, many China Empire stamps are highly valuable, particularly the early issues like the 'Large Dragons' and 'Small Dragons,' as well as rare varieties, errors, and stamps with significant historical context. The value depends heavily on rarity, condition, and demand from collectors. Common later issues may be less valuable, but rare examples can fetch thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How can I identify China Empire stamps?
China Empire stamps can be identified by their distinctive designs, which often feature dragons, imperial symbols, or Chinese characters. Many also include English or French inscriptions, especially those from treaty ports or early issues. Pay attention to watermarks, perforations, and any overprints. For precise identification and valuation, use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized catalogs.
Which catalogs list China Empire stamps?
China Empire stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values. Specialized catalogs focusing on Chinese philately also offer more in-depth coverage.
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