Sinkiang Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Sinkiang (Xinjiang) Stamps
Sinkiang, officially known as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, is a vast, historically significant territory located in Northwest China, bordering Central Asia. Its postal history is complex, primarily falling under the administration of the Republic of China and later the People's Republic of China, though periods of warlord control and brief independence complicated early issues. Stamps from this region often feature Chinese characters, reflecting the dominant administrative language, alongside local Turkic languages in certain historical contexts. The region's remote location and shifting political allegiances meant that postal services were often sporadic or subject to external control until firm integration into the national postal system.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1915 – 1949
- Languages:
- Chinese, Uyghur
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Sinkiang (Xinjiang) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Sinkiang (Xinjiang) Stamp Series
Sinkiang Surcharges on Chinese Stamps (1915-1920s)
Chinese stamps overprinted with local Sinkiang currency values, often in both Chinese and Uyghur scripts, reflecting the region's distinct monetary system.
Sinkiang Local Issues (1930s-1940s)
Stamps specifically designed and issued for use within Sinkiang, sometimes featuring local imagery or distinct designs from national issues.
Sinkiang Provisional Issues (1940s)
Emergency or provisional stamps issued during periods of political instability or isolation, often characterized by crude printing or local overprints.
Sinkiang (Xinjiang) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific issue, overprint, condition, and rarity. Early surcharges and provisional issues, especially those with rare varieties or errors, can command high prices. Common Chinese stamps used in Sinkiang without local overprints are generally of lower value.
How to Identify Sinkiang (Xinjiang) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Sinkiang (Xinjiang) stamps:
- 1 Look for Chinese characters and sometimes Uyghur script overprints or designs on stamps that are otherwise Chinese in origin.
- 2 Examine the currency denominations, which often reflect local Sinkiang currency rather than standard national Chinese currency.
- 3 Pay attention to the specific type of overprint (e.g., 'Sinkiang' in Chinese characters, new values) and its placement.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sinkiang stamps?
Sinkiang stamps are postage stamps issued for or used within the Sinkiang (Xinjiang) region of Northwest China, primarily between 1915 and 1949. These often include Chinese national stamps overprinted with local Sinkiang currency values or specific local issues reflecting the region's unique postal history and political circumstances.
Are Sinkiang stamps valuable?
The value of Sinkiang stamps varies widely. While many common issues can be found for a few dollars, rare surcharges, provisional issues, and stamps with specific varieties or errors can be highly valuable, fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition plays a significant role in determining value.
How can I identify Sinkiang stamps?
To identify Sinkiang stamps, look for overprints in Chinese characters (and sometimes Uyghur script) indicating local currency values or the region's name on Chinese stamps. Some issues are distinct local designs. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known Sinkiang issues and learn more about its specifics.
Which catalogs list Sinkiang stamps?
Sinkiang stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, typically within the China section or as a distinct sub-category due to their unique regional status.
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