Chungking Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Chungking (Chongqing) Stamps
Chungking, officially Chongqing, is a major municipality located in Southwest China, situated on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, it served as the provisional capital of the Republic of China, a period reflected in stamps issued under the Nationalist government. Postal issues from this era predominantly feature Chinese characters, often alongside English or French, reflecting international engagement during wartime. The administration of Chungking transitioned from a provincial capital to a direct-controlled municipality under the People's Republic of China, impacting subsequent stamp series.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1893 – 1894
- Languages:
- Chinese, English, French
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Chungking (Chongqing) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Chungking (Chongqing) Stamp Series
Customs Post Issues (1893-1894)
Stamps issued by the Imperial Chinese Customs Post for local use in Chungking, often featuring dragon designs or Chinese characters.
Provisional Capital Issues (1937-1945)
Stamps issued during Chungking's period as the provisional capital of the Republic of China, often overprinted or featuring designs related to the war effort.
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Chungking (Chongqing) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early Customs Post issues can be quite valuable, especially in good condition or as covers. Wartime provisional issues vary widely, with some overprints being scarce. Condition and authenticity are crucial for higher values.
How to Identify Chungking (Chongqing) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Chungking (Chongqing) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Chungking' or Chinese characters indicating 'Chongqing' or 'Chungking Post'.
- 2 Early issues often feature designs common to Imperial Chinese stamps but with specific overprints or local indications.
- 3 Wartime issues may have overprints in Chinese characters on existing Republic of China stamps.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chungking stamps?
Chungking stamps refer to postal issues from the city of Chungking (now Chongqing) in China. This includes early local issues by the Imperial Chinese Customs Post (1893-1894) and stamps issued or used during its period as the provisional capital of the Republic of China (1937-1945) during the Second Sino-Japanese War. These stamps often reflect the unique historical circumstances of their issuance.
Are Chungking stamps valuable?
The value of Chungking stamps varies significantly. Early Customs Post issues, particularly those in fine condition or on cover, can be quite valuable, ranging from $200 to over $5,000 for rare examples. Later wartime provisional issues can range from a few dollars for common types to several hundred dollars for scarce overprints or varieties. Factors like condition, rarity, and historical significance greatly influence their market price.
How can I identify Chungking stamps?
To identify Chungking stamps, look for clear indications of 'Chungking' in English or French, or the corresponding Chinese characters (重慶). Early issues might resemble other Imperial Chinese stamps but with specific local markings. Wartime issues are often Republic of China stamps with overprints. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known issues and provide details on its origin and potential value.
Which catalogs list Chungking stamps?
Chungking stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue, Michel China specialized catalogs, and Stanley Gibbons Commonwealth & British Empire Stamps catalogue (for some early issues) and China specialized catalogs. These catalogs provide detailed listings, images, and estimated values for various Chungking issues.
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