Tibet Chinese Post Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Tibet (Chinese Post) Stamps
Tibet, situated on the high-altitude plateau of Central Asia, has a complex postal history reflecting its unique geopolitical status. While historically operating as an independent entity with its own postal system, stamps issued under the designation "Tibet Chinese Post" signify periods of administrative control or incorporation by the People's Republic of China. Issues from this period typically feature Chinese characters alongside Tibetan script, reflecting the official linguistic environment of the region under Chinese authority. The transition from independent postal service to integration within the Chinese postal network marks the most significant administrative shift affecting stamp issuance for this territory.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1911 – 1911
- Languages:
- Tibetan, Chinese
- Currency:
- CNY
- Parent issuer:
- China (People's Republic)
Stamp Catalogs
Tibet (Chinese Post) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Tibet (Chinese Post) Stamp Series
Provisional Surcharges (1911)
Stamps of Tibet overprinted with Chinese characters and new values, reflecting the transitional period of Chinese influence.
issuer:tibet-chinese-post.series.items.1.name (issuer:tibet-chinese-post.series.items.1.period)
issuer:tibet-chinese-post.series.items.1.description
issuer:tibet-chinese-post.series.items.2.name (issuer:tibet-chinese-post.series.items.2.period)
issuer:tibet-chinese-post.series.items.2.description
Tibet (Chinese Post) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: The 'Tibet Chinese Post' issues are generally scarce due to their limited period of use and specific political context. Values vary significantly based on condition, specific overprint, and rarity of the underlying Tibetan stamp.
How to Identify Tibet (Chinese Post) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Tibet (Chinese Post) stamps:
- 1 Look for original Tibetan stamps (e.g., 'Lion and Snow Mountain' design) with clear Chinese character overprints.
- 2 Verify the overprint text and value, as forgeries and unauthorized issues exist.
- 3 Note the year of issue, which is exclusively 1911 for these specific issues.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tibet Chinese Post stamps?
Tibet Chinese Post stamps refer to a specific, short-lived issue from 1911 where existing stamps of independent Tibet were overprinted with Chinese characters and new values, signifying a period of Chinese administrative influence or control over the Tibetan postal system.
Are Tibet Chinese Post stamps valuable?
Yes, Tibet Chinese Post stamps can be quite valuable due to their historical significance, rarity, and the limited period of their issuance. Common examples might fetch $5-$50, while rare varieties or those in pristine condition can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How can I identify Tibet Chinese Post stamps?
To identify Tibet Chinese Post stamps, look for the distinctive designs of early Tibetan stamps (like the 'Lion and Snow Mountain' emblem) that bear additional overprints in Chinese characters, often indicating new denominations. Consulting a specialized catalog or using a stamp identifier app can help confirm authenticity and specific varieties.
Which catalogs list Tibet Chinese Post stamps?
Tibet Chinese Post stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including catalog numbers, descriptions, and estimated values for various issues and varieties.
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