Russian Post China Stamps
Russian Post China refers to the postal administration established by the Russian Empire within Chinese territory, primarily in the Far East and along the Chinese Eastern Railway zone. This entity operated under the jurisdiction of the Russian Ministry of Posts and Telegraphs, functioning as an extraterritorial postal service during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- Issued stamps
- 1899–1920
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- RUB
- Languages
- Russian
- Issuer type
- Colonial postal administration
- Part of
- Russian Empire
About Russian Post China stamps
Stamps issued for use in these areas were denominated in Russian currency and bore Russian inscriptions, often specifically noting their use in China or Manchuria. The service ceased operations following the collapse of the Russian Empire and subsequent geopolitical shifts in the region.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Russian Post China stamps
- Look for Russian inscriptions and denominations (kopecks, rubles).
- Identify overprints such as 'K.P.' (Китайская Почта - Kitaiskaya Pochta) or 'Manchuria' (Маньчжурія).
- Examine the design for the Imperial Russian double-headed eagle or portraits of Tsars.
Popular series
-
Imperial Russian Eagle Issues
1899-1908
Stamps of the Russian Empire overprinted or specifically issued for use in Chinese post offices, featuring the Imperial Russian eagle.
-
Romanov Tercentenary Issues
1913
Commemorative stamps celebrating 300 years of the Romanov dynasty, used in Russian post offices in China.
-
Definitive Issues with Chinese Overprints
1900-1917
Various definitive stamps of Russia, sometimes with specific overprints indicating their use in China or Manchuria.
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
- $5–$50
- Scarce stamps
- $200–$5,000+
Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprints, and cancellations. Stamps with clear 'K.P.' (Kitaiskaya Pochta - Chinese Post) or 'Manchuria' overprints are generally more sought after. Errors and varieties can command much higher prices.
Catalogs. Russian Post 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 Russian Post China stamps
Russian Post China stamps were issued by the Russian Empire for use in its extraterritorial post offices established within Chinese territory, primarily along the Chinese Eastern Railway and in major cities, from 1899 to 1920. These stamps were Russian issues, often with specific overprints or designs indicating their use in China.
The value of Russian Post China stamps varies widely. Common issues can be found for a few dollars, while rarer stamps, especially those with specific overprints, good condition, or unique cancellations, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Factors like rarity, condition, and historical significance play a crucial role in their market value.
To identify Russian Post China stamps, look for Russian text and denominations (kopecks, rubles). Many will feature the Imperial Russian double-headed eagle or portraits of Russian Tsars. Crucially, check for overprints like 'K.P.' (Китайская Почта - Kitaiskaya Pochta) or 'Manchuria' (Маньчжурія). The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
Russian Post China stamps are well-documented in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them listed in Scott (under Russia, then 'Offices in China'), Michel (under Russland, then 'Post in China'), and Stanley Gibbons (under Russia, then 'Offices in China'). These catalogs provide detailed listings, images, and estimated values.
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