Tsing Hai Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Tsing Hai (Qinghai) Stamps
Tsing Hai, a vast, high-altitude region in Western China, is geographically situated on the Tibetan Plateau. Its postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader administration of the Republic of China, experiencing periods of both central government control and local warlord influence before full integration into the People's Republic of China. Stamps issued during its autonomous period often featured Chinese characters, reflecting the dominant administrative language, though local Tibetan influences were sometimes present in the region's broader cultural context. The region's complex political status and remote location meant that postal services were often sporadic and subject to significant internal transitions throughout the early 20th century.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- None
- Languages:
- Chinese, Tibetan
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- Republic of China
Stamp Catalogs
Tsing Hai (Qinghai) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Tsing Hai (Qinghai) Stamp Series
Local Overprints (c. 1930s-1940s)
Stamps of the Republic of China overprinted locally for use in Tsing Hai, often due to shortages or specific administrative needs.
Provincial Issues (c. 1930s-1940s)
While not extensive, some issues might be attributed to provincial administration, reflecting the semi-autonomous nature of the region during periods of central government weakness.
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Tsing Hai (Qinghai) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Tsing Hai stamps is highly dependent on their authenticity, specific overprints, condition, and rarity. Many are local overprints on national issues, and genuine examples can be scarce. Forgeries and unofficial issues are known, so expert authentication is crucial for higher-value items.
How to Identify Tsing Hai (Qinghai) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Tsing Hai (Qinghai) stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints (often in Chinese characters) on stamps originally issued by the Republic of China.
- 2 Examine the design for any specific provincial or regional markings, though these are less common than overprints.
- 3 Pay close attention to the cancellation marks, which may indicate local postal usage within Tsing Hai.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tsing Hai stamps?
Tsing Hai (also known as Qinghai) stamps refer to postal issues used in the historical and geographical region of Tsing Hai in Western China, primarily during the Republic of China era. These are often national stamps of China overprinted locally for use within the province, reflecting its unique administrative status and remote location.
Are Tsing Hai stamps valuable?
The value of Tsing Hai stamps varies significantly. Common overprints or national issues used in the region might be moderately priced ($5-$50). However, rare local overprints, specific varieties, or stamps with clear postal history from the region can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially if authenticated. Condition and scarcity are key factors.
How can I identify Tsing Hai stamps?
To identify Tsing Hai stamps, look for overprints on Republic of China stamps, often in Chinese characters, indicating local use or specific provincial administration. Examine cancellations for place names within Tsing Hai. Consulting specialized philatelic catalogs for China and using a stamp identifier app can help confirm authenticity and specific varieties.
Which catalogs list Tsing Hai stamps?
Tsing Hai stamps are typically listed in major international catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons, usually within the sections for China or Chinese provincial/local issues. Specialized catalogs focusing on Chinese philately will offer more detailed listings and information on overprints and varieties.
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