German Kiauchau Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German Kiauchau Stamps
German Kiauchau, officially the Jiaozhou Bay Leased Territory, was a German concession located on the Shandong Peninsula in East Asia. This territory was administered by the German Empire from 1898 until its capture by Japan during World War I, after which it became a Japanese mandate. Stamps issued during the German period were denominated in German currency, typically featuring German inscriptions alongside local geographical identifiers. The postal history of Kiauchau is brief, marked by its status as a distinct colonial entity within the German Empire's overseas possessions.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1900 β 1905
- Languages:
- German, Chinese
- Currency:
- DEM
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German Kiauchau stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German Kiauchau Stamp Series
Yacht Issue (Hohenzollern Yacht) (1900-1905)
The definitive series for German Kiauchau, featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'. These stamps are overprinted 'Kiautschou' on German Empire stamps.
Provisional Issues (1900)
Early provisional issues created by overprinting German Empire stamps with 'Kiautschou' to meet immediate postal needs.
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German Kiauchau Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Value is highly dependent on condition, specific overprint varieties, and cancellations. Early provisional issues and higher denominations tend to be more valuable.
How to Identify German Kiauchau Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German Kiauchau stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'Kiautschou' overprint on German Empire stamps, typically featuring the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern'.
- 2 Denominations are in German currency (Pfennig and Mark).
- 3 Check for watermarks (usually lozenges or crosses, depending on the underlying German stamp).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are German Kiauchau stamps?
German Kiauchau stamps are postage stamps issued by the German Empire for its leased territory of Jiaozhou Bay (Kiautschou) in China, from 1900 to 1905. They are primarily German Empire stamps overprinted with 'Kiautschou'.
Are German Kiauchau stamps valuable?
Some German Kiauchau stamps can be quite valuable, especially early provisional issues, higher denominations, and stamps in fine condition with clear cancellations. Common examples can be found for a few euros, while rare varieties can fetch hundreds of euros.
How can I identify German Kiauchau stamps?
To identify German Kiauchau stamps, look for the distinct 'Kiautschou' overprint on stamps that typically depict the imperial yacht 'Hohenzollern' or other German Empire designs. Pay attention to the denomination in Pfennig or Mark. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm authenticity and catalog details.
Which catalogs list German Kiauchau stamps?
German Kiauchau stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context.
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