South China Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About South China (1949) Stamps
South China, encompassing the southern provinces of the vast East Asian nation, has a complex postal history intertwined with the broader narrative of China. While not a sovereign entity issuing its own distinct postal series, the region's postal administration was historically managed under the central Qing dynasty and later the Republic of China, often influenced by foreign treaty ports and concessions. Stamps issued for use in this area predominantly feature Chinese characters, though treaty port issues sometimes included English or French. The administrative landscape shifted dramatically through periods of warlordism, civil war, and the eventual establishment of the People's Republic of China, all of which dictated the continuity and design of postal materials across the southern provinces.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1949 – 1949
- Languages:
- Chinese
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
South China (1949) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular South China (1949) Stamp Series
South China Surcharges (1949)
Stamps of the Republic of China overprinted for use in the southern provinces during the final stages of the Chinese Civil War.
Provisional Issues (1949)
Local provisional stamps issued by various regional authorities in South China before the full establishment of PRC postal services.
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South China (1949) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of South China issues from 1949 largely depends on the specific overprint, the base stamp it was applied to, and its condition. Some provisional issues, especially those with limited local use, can be quite rare and command higher prices. Forgeries are also prevalent, so expertization is often recommended for more valuable pieces.
How to Identify South China (1949) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying South China (1949) stamps:
- 1 Look for Chinese characters and specific overprints indicating 'South China' or regional postal administrations.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for its original Republic of China design and watermarks.
- 3 Pay attention to the specific type of surcharge or overprint, as many varieties exist.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are South China stamps?
South China stamps refer to postal issues used in the southern provinces of China during the tumultuous period of 1949, primarily during the final stages of the Chinese Civil War. These were often stamps of the Republic of China overprinted or surcharged by various regional authorities, or provisional local issues, before the People's Republic of China fully established its postal system across the region.
Are South China stamps valuable?
The value of South China stamps varies significantly. Common overprints or provisional issues might be worth a few dollars, while rare varieties, specific surcharges, or stamps with historical significance can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially in fine condition. Expert authentication is crucial for higher-value items.
How can I identify South China stamps?
To identify South China stamps, look for Chinese characters, specific overprints or surcharges indicating regional use in 1949, and the underlying design of Republic of China stamps. Many issues are provisional and can be complex to identify without specialized knowledge. Using a stamp identifier app can help you match your stamp to catalog entries and learn more about its specific characteristics.
Which catalogs list South China stamps?
South China stamps are listed in major international catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, typically within the China sections under 'Provisional Issues' or 'Regional Issues' from the 1949 period. Specialized Chinese philatelic catalogs also provide extensive details on these complex issues.
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