China Foreign Post Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About China Foreign Post Offices Stamps
China Foreign Post refers to the postal services operated by foreign powers within Chinese territory, primarily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These administrations, including those of Great Britain, France, Germany, Russia, Japan, and others, issued their own stamps denominated in local currency or treaty port currency, often overprinted on their home country's issues. This complex postal geography reflects the unequal treaties imposed on China, leading to a fragmented postal landscape until the consolidation of the Chinese Imperial Post. Stamps from these offices typically feature the issuing foreign power's name and language, alongside Chinese characters in some instances.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1865 – 1922
- Languages:
- English, French, German, Russian, Japanese, Italian, Chinese
- Currency:
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- issuer:china-foreign-post.overview.parentIssuer:
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Stamp Catalogs
China Foreign Post Offices stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular China Foreign Post Offices Stamp Series
British Offices in China (1865-1922)
Stamps of Great Britain overprinted 'CHINA' or with specific treaty port names, used in British postal agencies.
French Offices in China (1894-1922)
Stamps of France overprinted 'CHINE' or 'INDO-CHINE' for use in French post offices in China.
German Offices in China (1886-1917)
Stamps of Germany overprinted 'CHINA' or with specific denominations for use in German post offices.
China Foreign Post Offices Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of China Foreign Post stamps varies significantly based on the issuing foreign power, specific overprint, condition, and rarity. Early issues and rare overprints, especially those from smaller or short-lived offices, can command very high prices. Complete sets or covers are also highly sought after.
How to Identify China Foreign Post Offices Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying China Foreign Post Offices stamps:
- 1 Look for the name of the foreign power (e.g., 'GREAT BRITAIN', 'FRANCE', 'DEUTSCHES REICH', 'RUSSIA', 'JAPAN') on the stamp.
- 2 Identify overprints such as 'CHINA', 'CHINE', 'SHANGHAI', 'TIENTSIN', or specific Chinese characters.
- 3 Note the currency denomination, which might be in the foreign power's currency or local Chinese currency (e.g., cents, dollars, or taels for some issues).
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are China Foreign Post stamps?
China Foreign Post stamps refer to postage stamps issued by various foreign powers (such as Great Britain, France, Germany, Russia, Japan, and others) for use in their own postal agencies established within Chinese territory during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These offices operated due to unequal treaties imposed on China.
Are China Foreign Post stamps valuable?
Yes, many China Foreign Post stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare overprints, early issues, and stamps in fine condition or on cover. The value depends heavily on the specific foreign power, the rarity of the overprint or issue, and the stamp's condition. Common issues may be affordable, while rare examples can fetch thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
How can I identify China Foreign Post stamps?
To identify China Foreign Post stamps, look for the name of the foreign country (e.g., 'Great Britain', 'France', 'Germany') on the stamp, often accompanied by an overprint indicating 'China' or a specific treaty port. The currency denomination can also be a clue. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to catalog entries and provide more detailed information.
Which catalogs list China Foreign Post stamps?
China Foreign Post stamps are extensively cataloged in major philatelic references. You can find them listed in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (usually under the respective foreign country's listings or a dedicated 'Offices in China' section), the Michel Catalogue (especially for German and other European offices), and the Stanley Gibbons Catalogue (particularly for British offices and other Commonwealth issues).
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