Foochow Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Foochow (Fuzhou) Stamps
Foochow, officially Fuzhou, is a major city located in the Fujian province on the southeastern coast of China. Historically, it served as one of the five treaty ports opened to foreign trade following the Treaty of Nanking in 1842, leading to significant international postal activity. Stamps issued for use in this area often reflect the broader postal administration of the Chinese Empire or subsequent Republic, though foreign post offices operated there until the early 20th century. The primary language appearing on official postal materials would be Chinese, with English or other European languages present on foreign issues.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1895 – 1896
- Languages:
- Chinese, English
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Foochow (Fuzhou) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Foochow (Fuzhou) Stamp Series
Local Post Issues (1895-1896)
Stamps issued by the Foochow Local Post, often featuring Chinese characters and sometimes overprinted on existing stamps.
Foreign Post Office Overprints (Late 19th - Early 20th Century)
Stamps of various foreign powers (e.g., Great Britain, USA, Japan) overprinted for use in their respective post offices in Foochow.
issuer:foochow.series.items.2.name (issuer:foochow.series.items.2.period)
issuer:foochow.series.items.2.description
Foochow (Fuzhou) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Foochow stamps varies significantly based on whether they are local post issues, foreign post office overprints, their condition, and rarity. Early local post issues and rare foreign overprints can command high prices, especially if well-preserved.
How to Identify Foochow (Fuzhou) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Foochow (Fuzhou) stamps:
- 1 Look for 'Foochow' or 'Fuzhou' in Chinese characters (福州) or English on local issues.
- 2 Identify overprints on foreign stamps, which often indicate the specific foreign post office (e.g., 'CHINA' overprint on British stamps).
- 3 Pay attention to watermarks and perforations, which can help distinguish genuine issues from forgeries or reprints.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Foochow stamps?
Foochow stamps refer primarily to the local post issues of Foochow (now Fuzhou), a treaty port in China, which operated briefly from 1895 to 1896. Additionally, stamps used in Foochow include those issued by the Chinese Imperial Post and various foreign post offices (e.g., British, American, Japanese) that operated within the city, often identified by specific overprints.
Are Foochow stamps valuable?
Yes, some Foochow stamps can be quite valuable. The local post issues, particularly those in good condition or with rare varieties, are highly sought after by collectors. Stamps from foreign post offices with specific Foochow overprints can also fetch significant prices, especially if they are scarce or part of a complete set. Common Chinese Imperial Post stamps used in Foochow are generally less valuable.
How can I identify Foochow stamps?
To identify Foochow stamps, look for the city's name in Chinese characters (福州) or sometimes in English on local issues. For foreign post office stamps, identify the country of origin and then look for overprints indicating use in China or a specific treaty port like 'FOOCHOW'. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly compare your stamp to known examples and verify its authenticity and origin.
Which catalogs list Foochow stamps?
Foochow stamps, including both local issues and foreign post office overprints, are listed in major philatelic catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, values, and historical context, essential for serious collectors.
Not sure if your stamp is from Foochow (Fuzhou)?
Identify it instantly with our iPhone app
Download on App Store