Szechwan Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Szechwan (Sichuan Province) Stamps
Szechwan, now known as Sichuan Province, is a large region situated in Southwest China, historically characterized by its basin geography. As an integral part of the Republic of China, its postal history is generally tied to the national postal administration, though local overprints or provisional issues sometimes appeared during periods of internal instability. Stamps issued for this region would predominantly feature Chinese characters, often alongside English or French transliterations during the treaty port era. The administrative history of Szechwan is marked by its transition from an imperial province to a modern provincial entity within the evolving political landscape of 20th-century China.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1933 – 1949
- Languages:
- Chinese, English, French
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- Republic of China
Stamp Catalogs
Szechwan (Sichuan Province) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Szechwan (Sichuan Province) Stamp Series
Provisional Issues (1930s-1940s)
Stamps overprinted with new values or surcharges due to currency fluctuations or postal rate changes during periods of instability.
Local Surcharges (1940s)
Stamps issued with local surcharges to meet specific regional postal needs, often during the Sino-Japanese War and Chinese Civil War.
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Szechwan (Sichuan Province) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Common Szechwan stamps, especially those from the later Republic period, are generally affordable. Provisional issues and specific local surcharges, particularly those with scarce overprint varieties or errors, can command significantly higher prices. Condition plays a crucial role.
How to Identify Szechwan (Sichuan Province) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Szechwan (Sichuan Province) stamps:
- 1 Look for Chinese characters (四川郵政 or similar) indicating Szechwan postal administration.
- 2 Examine for overprints or surcharges, often in red or black ink, applied to standard Chinese Republic stamps.
- 3 Note the presence of English or French transliterations, especially on earlier issues or those related to treaty ports.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Szechwan stamps?
Szechwan stamps refer to postal issues used in the Szechwan (Sichuan) Province of China, primarily during the Republic of China era (1912-1949). While often using national issues, Szechwan also produced provisional stamps, surcharges, and local overprints, especially during times of war and political upheaval.
Are Szechwan stamps valuable?
The value of Szechwan stamps varies widely. Many common issues are inexpensive, but certain provisional issues, rare overprints, or stamps with specific errors can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars. Rarity, condition, and philatelic demand are key factors.
How can I identify Szechwan stamps?
To identify Szechwan stamps, look for Chinese characters indicating 'Szechwan Post' or specific overprints on standard Chinese Republic stamps. Pay attention to the dates of issue, as they fall within the 1933-1949 period. For precise identification and valuation, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Szechwan stamps?
Szechwan stamps are typically listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the China section or as specific regional/provisional issues. Specialized catalogs for Chinese philately will offer more detailed listings.
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