Northeast China Stamps
Northeast China, historically known as Manchuria, is a region in northeastern Asia bordering Russia and the Korean Peninsula. Its postal history is complex, marked by periods of imperial Chinese administration, Japanese occupation, and the establishment of Manchukuo, which issued its own distinct stamps.
- Issued stamps
- 1946–1951
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- CNY
- Languages
- Chinese
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- China
About Northeast China stamps
Stamps from this area often feature Chinese characters, though issues under Japanese control utilized Japanese script alongside Chinese. The region's postal system underwent significant reorganization following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, integrating it fully into the national postal network.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Northeast China stamps
- Look for Chinese characters (often simplified or traditional) and sometimes Japanese script on earlier provisional issues.
- Stamps typically bear the inscription '東北郵政' (Dōngběi Yóuzhèng - Northeast Post) or similar regional indicators.
- Many issues are overprinted on stamps of Manchukuo, Japanese occupation, or Nationalist China, making the overprint crucial for identification.
Popular series
-
Northeast China Provisional Issues
1946-1947
Early issues often overprinted on existing stamps (Japanese occupation, Manchukuo, or Chinese Nationalist issues) to reflect the new administration.
-
Regular Issues of Northeast China
1947-1949
Definitive stamps featuring local scenes, industries, and political figures, reflecting the Communist-controlled administration prior to the establishment of the PRC.
-
Commemorative Issues
1947-1950
Stamps commemorating significant events, anniversaries, and national heroes during the period of Communist control in Northeast China.
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–$20
- Scarce stamps
- $100–$1000+
Values vary significantly based on condition, specific issue, and overprints. Early provisional issues and rare varieties can command high prices, especially if well-centered and unused. Many common issues are affordable.
Catalogs. Northeast 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 Northeast China stamps
Northeast China stamps refer to postal issues from the region historically known as Manchuria, specifically during the period of Communist administration between 1946 and 1951, prior to its full integration into the People's Republic of China's postal system. These stamps reflect a complex transitional period.
The value of Northeast China stamps varies widely. Common issues can be quite affordable, often in the $1-$20 range. However, rare provisional issues, specific overprints, errors, and high-value definitives, especially in fine unused condition, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition, rarity, and historical significance are key factors.
To identify Northeast China stamps, look for Chinese characters, particularly '東北郵政' (Northeast Post). Many early issues are overprints on stamps from previous administrations (Manchukuo, Japanese occupation, or Nationalist China). An iPhone app for stamp identification can be a valuable tool, allowing you to photograph a stamp and receive potential matches and information.
Northeast China stamps are well-documented in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (typically under China or a specific regional section), the Michel China Catalogue, and the Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (though sometimes less comprehensively for non-Commonwealth issues, they are usually included under China).
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