North China Stamps
North China, encompassing regions of East Asia, primarily refers to the area under the administration of the Provisional Government of the Republic of China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Postal services in this region were often managed by the Japanese-sponsored entity, leading to stamps that frequently featured Chinese characters alongside Japanese influence or administration.
- Issued stamps
- 1949–1949
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- CNY
- Languages
- Chinese
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- China
About North China stamps
This period of divided sovereignty resulted in a complex postal history marked by provisional issues and administrative transitions reflecting the shifting political control over the territory. The language on these stamps is predominantly Chinese, reflecting the local populace, though administrative markings may show Japanese influence.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify North China stamps
- Look for Chinese characters indicating 'North China' or specific regional names.
- Identify overprints on stamps originally issued by the Republic of China.
- Note the presence of Japanese influence in design or administrative markings, though less common on the stamps themselves than in the broader postal administration context.
Popular series
-
Overprints on Chinese Nationalist Stamps
1949
Stamps of the Republic of China overprinted with new values or characters for use in North China.
-
Local Issues
1949
Provisional issues created for specific areas within North China due to administrative changes.
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
- €1–€10
- Scarce stamps
- €50–€500+
The value of North China stamps varies significantly based on the specific issue, overprint, condition, and rarity. Provisional issues and specific overprints can be quite valuable, especially those with errors or scarce varieties. Common issues, particularly those used for a short period, are generally affordable.
Catalogs. North China 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 North China stamps
North China stamps refer to postal issues used in the regions of northern China during a period of complex political control, primarily in 1949. These were often provisional issues or overprints on existing Chinese stamps, reflecting the shifting administrations and the end of the Chinese Civil War.
The value of North China stamps can range from a few euros for common issues to several hundred euros for rare varieties, specific overprints, or stamps in pristine condition. Their value is highly dependent on their historical context, scarcity, and philatelic demand.
To identify North China stamps, look for specific Chinese characters indicating the region or provisional status, often as overprints on stamps of the Republic of China. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
North China stamps are typically listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually under sections for China or Chinese occupation/provisional issues. Specialized catalogs for Chinese philately may also provide more detailed listings.
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