German China Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About German China Stamps
German China, or Deutsch-China, was a German protectorate located in East Asia, primarily centered around the Jiaozhou Bay concession in Shandong Province. Its postal history is defined by its status as a colonial entity of the German Empire, operating under the *Reichspost* system from 1898 until its occupation by Japan during World War I. Stamps issued for this territory invariably feature German inscriptions, often denominated in German currency, and reflect the administrative control exercised by Berlin. The postal service ceased operations following the Allied takeover, leading to subsequent issues under Japanese and later Chinese administration.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1898 – 1914
- Languages:
- German
- Currency:
- DEM
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
German China stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular German China Stamp Series
Yacht Issue (Kaiser's Yacht Hohenzollern) (1900-1914)
The most iconic series, featuring the Kaiser's yacht 'Hohenzollern' in various denominations and colors, overprinted with 'China'.
German Empire Stamps with 'China' Overprint (1898-1900)
Initial issues consisted of regular German Empire stamps overprinted with 'China' to denote their use in the protectorate.
Provisional Issues (1900)
Emergency issues created by overprinting existing stamps with new denominations or 'China' during periods of shortage.
German China Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps from German China, especially the 'Yacht' series, are popular with collectors. Early overprinted issues and high-denomination Yacht stamps in fine condition can fetch significant prices. Forgeries exist, particularly of the overprints.
How to Identify German China Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying German China stamps:
- 1 Look for 'China' overprints on German Empire stamps.
- 2 The distinctive 'Yacht' design (Kaiser's yacht Hohenzollern) is unique to German colonial issues.
- 3 Inscriptions are always in German, often with 'Reichspost' or 'Deutsches Reich'.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are German China stamps?
German China stamps were issued by the German Empire for use in its protectorate of Jiaozhou Bay (Kiautschou) in China, from 1898 until its occupation by Japan in 1914. They are a significant part of German colonial philately.
Are German China stamps valuable?
Yes, many German China stamps are valuable, especially those from the iconic 'Yacht' series, early overprinted issues, and high-denomination stamps in good condition. Rarity, condition, and specific varieties can significantly impact their market value, with some rare examples fetching thousands of Euros.
How can I identify German China stamps?
German China stamps are primarily identified by the 'China' overprint on German Empire stamps or by the distinctive 'Yacht' design featuring the Kaiser's yacht 'Hohenzollern'. All inscriptions are in German, and denominations are in Pfennig and Mark. For precise identification and to check for authenticity, you can use a stamp identifier app or consult specialized philatelic catalogs.
Which catalogs list German China stamps?
German China stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (under German Colonies), Michel (especially important for German areas), and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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