Shensi Stamps
Shensi, now known as Shaanxi province, is a historical region situated in Northwest China, central to the Yellow River basin. As an integral part of China, its postal history falls under the administration of the central government, reflecting periods of imperial rule, the Republic of China, and the People's Republic of China.
- Issued stamps
- 1949–1949
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- CNY
- Languages
- Chinese
- Issuer type
- Historical postal administration
- Part of
- China
About Shensi stamps
Stamps issued for this region predominantly feature Chinese characters, often alongside English or French during treaty port eras or early Republican periods. The administrative transitions within China significantly impacted the issuance and validity of postal materials across this historically vital territory.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify Shensi stamps
- Look for Chinese characters identifying the region (陝西郵政) or specific overprint texts on existing Chinese stamps.
- Examine the overprint carefully for authenticity, as many were applied locally and can vary in appearance.
- Note the base stamp on which the overprint is applied, as this can help in catalog identification.
Popular series
-
Local Overprints
1949
Stamps of the Republic of China overprinted locally by the Shensi (Shaanxi) Provincial Post for provisional use during the civil war period.
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
- $100–$500+
The value of Shensi stamps is primarily driven by the scarcity of specific overprint varieties and their condition. As these were provisional issues during a turbulent period, many are found in used condition or with postal wear. Unused examples, especially those with clear overprints, command higher prices. Forgeries of overprints exist, so expertization is often recommended for higher-value items.
Catalogs. Shensi 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 Shensi stamps
Shensi stamps refer to provisional postal issues from the Shensi (now Shaanxi) province of China, primarily from 1949. These were typically stamps of the Republic of China that were locally overprinted for use within the province during the Chinese Civil War, reflecting the administrative transitions of the time.
The value of Shensi stamps can vary significantly. While some common overprints may be affordable, rare varieties, especially those in fine condition or with specific overprint errors, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of US dollars. Expert authentication is often recommended for higher-value pieces due to the prevalence of forgeries.
To identify Shensi stamps, look for overprints on Chinese stamps, usually featuring Chinese characters that denote 'Shensi Post' or similar provincial markings. Comparing these overprints to catalog references is crucial. A photo in the Stamp Identifier app gives a first identification; check the catalog number in a specialised catalog before relying on it.
Shensi stamps, particularly the provisional overprints, are listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the China section under 'Local Issues' or 'Provisional Issues.' These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values for collectors.
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