China Expeditionary Forces Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About China Expeditionary Forces Stamps
The China Expeditionary Forces stamps were issued by a temporary military administration operating primarily in East Asia, specifically within China, during the early 20th century. These issues relate to the presence of foreign military contingents, often reflecting the complex geopolitical environment of the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican era. The stamps typically feature inscriptions in English, sometimes alongside Chinese characters, denoting their provisional military postal service status rather than a sovereign national issue. Their existence marks a specific, non-territorial administrative phase tied directly to military occupation or intervention.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1900 – 1921
- Languages:
- English, Chinese
- Currency:
- CNY
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Stamp Catalogs
China Expeditionary Forces stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular China Expeditionary Forces Stamp Series
Overprints on Chinese Imperial Post Stamps (1900-1901)
Stamps of the Chinese Imperial Post overprinted with 'CHINA EXPEDITIONARY FORCE' or similar, used during the Boxer Rebellion.
Overprints on British Stamps (1900-1901)
British stamps overprinted for use by the British contingent of the Expeditionary Force, often with 'C.E.F.'.
Overprints on Indian Stamps (1900-1901)
Stamps of British India overprinted 'C.E.F.' for use by Indian troops serving with the Expeditionary Force.
China Expeditionary Forces Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the specific overprint, base stamp, condition, and rarity. Early provisional issues and errors are highly sought after.
How to Identify China Expeditionary Forces Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying China Expeditionary Forces stamps:
- 1 Look for overprints such as 'CHINA EXPEDITIONARY FORCE', 'C.E.F.', or similar on stamps of China, Great Britain, or British India.
- 2 Examine the base stamp for its original country of issue and design to determine the specific contingent's usage.
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Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are China Expeditionary Forces stamps?
China Expeditionary Forces stamps were provisional issues used by various foreign military contingents operating in China, primarily during and after the Boxer Rebellion (1900-1901). These stamps facilitated military postal services and often consisted of existing stamps from their home countries or China, overprinted with inscriptions like 'C.E.F.' or 'CHINA EXPEDITIONARY FORCE'.
Are China Expeditionary Forces stamps valuable?
The value of China Expeditionary Forces stamps varies greatly. Common examples can be found for $5-$50, while rare overprints, specific base stamps, or errors can fetch hundreds to several thousands of dollars. Factors like condition, rarity of the overprint, and the base stamp's origin significantly influence their market price.
How can I identify China Expeditionary Forces stamps?
To identify China Expeditionary Forces stamps, look for overprints such as 'CHINA EXPEDITIONARY FORCE', 'C.E.F.', or similar on stamps originally issued by China, Great Britain, British India, or other participating nations. Pay close attention to the font, color, and placement of the overprint. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the origin and specific issue.
Which catalogs list China Expeditionary Forces stamps?
China Expeditionary Forces stamps are listed in major philatelic catalogs including Scott (often under China or Great Britain/British Commonwealth), Michel (under China or the respective European countries), and Stanley Gibbons (under China or British Commonwealth). These catalogs provide detailed listings, varieties, and estimated values.
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