Formosa Stamps
Formosa, the historical name for Taiwan, is an island nation located in East Asia, situated off the southeastern coast of mainland China. Its postal history is complex, reflecting periods under Dutch, Spanish, Chinese (Qing Dynasty), Japanese, and later Republic of China administration.
- Issued stamps
- 1887–1895
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- CNY
- Languages
- Chinese
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- China (Qing Dynasty)
About Formosa stamps
Stamps from this region predominantly feature Chinese characters, often alongside English or Japanese during specific colonial periods. The transition from Japanese colonial rule to post-World War II administration by the Republic of China significantly impacted the design and issuance of its postal materials.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Formosa stamps
- Look for Chinese characters, often with 'Taiwan' (臺灣) or 'Formosa' (福爾摩沙) indications, though early issues may not explicitly state 'Formosa'.
- Examine for surcharges on Chinese Imperial Post stamps, which signify their use in Formosa.
- Pay attention to the printing method and paper, as early issues were often crudely produced.
Popular series
-
Dragon and Cloud Issue
1887
The first stamps issued for Formosa, featuring a dragon and cloud motif, printed in Shanghai.
-
Surcharged Issues
1888-1895
Chinese Imperial Post stamps surcharged for use in Formosa, often with local characters or values.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $10–$100
- Scarce stamps
- $500–$10,000+
Stamps from Formosa's Qing Dynasty period are generally scarce due to limited issuance and usage. Early issues, especially the Dragon and Cloud series, and certain surcharges can be quite valuable, particularly in good condition or on cover. Forgeries are known, so expertization is recommended for high-value items.
Catalogs. Formosa stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about Formosa stamps
Formosa stamps refer to the postal issues used on the island of Taiwan during its historical periods, particularly the Qing Dynasty administration (1887-1895) before Japanese rule. These stamps reflect the island's complex postal history.
Yes, stamps from Formosa, especially those issued during the Qing Dynasty period, can be quite valuable. Their scarcity, historical significance, and demand among collectors of Chinese and Taiwanese philately contribute to their worth. Prices can range from tens to thousands of dollars, depending on the specific issue, condition, and rarity.
To identify Formosa stamps, look for Chinese characters, often including 'Taiwan' or 'Formosa' (though not always on the earliest issues). Many are surcharged Chinese Imperial Post stamps. Consulting a specialized catalog is essential. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Formosa stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, typically found within the sections for China or Taiwan. Specialized catalogs for Chinese philately will also provide detailed listings and information.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.