Port Arthur and Dairen Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Port Arthur and Dairen Stamps
Port Arthur and Dairen, located in Northeast Asia on the Liaodong Peninsula, represent a unique chapter in postal history dominated by shifting international spheres of influence. These territories were administered primarily under Japanese control following the Russo-Japanese War, leading to a complex series of postal arrangements separate from mainland China. Stamps issued for this region typically feature Japanese script, reflecting the administrative language, alongside denominations in yen or sen. The postal system underwent significant transitions, particularly after World War II, when administration reverted to Chinese authority, marking the end of this distinct philatelic entity.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1946 – 1950
- Languages:
- Japanese, Chinese
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China
Stamp Catalogs
Port Arthur and Dairen stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Port Arthur and Dairen Stamp Series
Post-War Provisional Issues (1946-1947)
Stamps issued immediately after World War II, often overprinted Japanese or Manchukuo stamps, reflecting the transitional period of Chinese reassertion of control.
Local Issues of Dairen (1946-1949)
Stamps specifically issued for Dairen, often featuring local designs or overprints, used during the Soviet occupation and subsequent Chinese administration.
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Port Arthur and Dairen Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The value of Port Arthur and Dairen stamps varies significantly based on the specific issue, condition, and whether they are overprints or definitive issues. Early provisional issues and errors can be quite valuable, especially those with clear postmarks.
How to Identify Port Arthur and Dairen Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Port Arthur and Dairen stamps:
- 1 Look for Japanese characters (Kanji) on earlier issues, often alongside Chinese characters on later provisional stamps.
- 2 Many issues are overprinted, either on Japanese, Manchukuo, or early Chinese stamps. Examine the underlying stamp carefully.
- 3 Denominations may be in Japanese yen/sen on earlier issues, transitioning to Chinese currency units (e.g., yuan, fen) on later issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Port Arthur and Dairen stamps?
Port Arthur and Dairen stamps refer to postal issues from the territories of Port Arthur (Lüshun) and Dairen (Dalian) on the Liaodong Peninsula, primarily during the period of Japanese influence and the subsequent post-World War II transition under Soviet and then Chinese administration. These stamps reflect a complex history of occupation and changing sovereignty.
Are Port Arthur and Dairen stamps valuable?
Some Port Arthur and Dairen stamps can be quite valuable, particularly early provisional issues, overprints, and stamps in pristine condition or with significant historical context. Common issues may be more affordable, but rare varieties can fetch hundreds of euros or more. Their value is often tied to their historical significance and scarcity.
How can I identify Port Arthur and Dairen stamps?
To identify Port Arthur and Dairen stamps, look for Japanese script, especially on earlier issues, and later Chinese characters. Many are overprinted on stamps of Japan, Manchukuo, or early China. Using a stamp identifier app can help you quickly match your stamp to known issues and provide catalog references.
Which catalogs list Port Arthur and Dairen stamps?
Port Arthur and Dairen stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, descriptions, and estimated values for various stamps from this fascinating philatelic entity.
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