Tsingtau Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Tsingtau (German Kiautschou) Stamps
Tsingtau, or Qingdao, was a significant German concession located on the Shandong Peninsula in East Asia. Its postal history is defined by its status as a leased territory under the German Empire until its capture by Japan during World War I. Stamps issued for Tsingtau primarily featured German language inscriptions, often overprinted on German colonial issues, reflecting its administration by the German Empire before its transfer to Japanese control. This territory's unique postal administration ceased following the Treaty of Versailles, marking a distinct, short-lived period in East Asian postal history.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1898 – 1914
- Languages:
- German, Chinese
- Currency:
- German Mark (M)
- Parent issuer:
- German Empire
Stamp Catalogs
Tsingtau (German Kiautschou) stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Tsingtau (German Kiautschou) Stamp Series
Yacht Issue (1900-1914)
German colonial stamps featuring the Imperial Yacht 'Hohenzollern', overprinted 'Kiautschou' or 'Tsingtau'.
Provisional Issues (1900)
Early provisional issues, often German stamps overprinted for local use.
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Tsingtau (German Kiautschou) Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Stamps from Tsingtau, especially the 'Yacht' issues with the 'Kiautschou' overprint, are highly sought after by collectors of German colonial philately. Rarity is often determined by specific overprint varieties, cancellations, and condition. Early provisional issues and covers can command significant premiums.
How to Identify Tsingtau (German Kiautschou) Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Tsingtau (German Kiautschou) stamps:
- 1 Look for the 'KIAUTSCHOU' or 'TSINGTAU' overprint, typically in German Fraktur script, on stamps of the German Empire.
- 2 Examine the underlying design, which is usually the 'Yacht' series (Kaiserliche Yacht Hohenzollern) or earlier German definitive issues.
- 3 Check for cancellations from Tsingtau post offices, often in German.
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tsingtau stamps?
Tsingtau stamps are postage stamps issued for the German leased territory of Kiautschou (Tsingtau) in China, primarily between 1898 and 1914. They are typically German Empire stamps overprinted with 'KIAUTSCHOU' or 'TSINGTAU'.
Are Tsingtau stamps valuable?
Yes, many Tsingtau stamps are valuable, especially those in good condition, with rare overprint varieties, or on original covers. Their historical significance as German colonial issues in China contributes to their desirability among collectors. Common examples might range from €5-€50, while rare varieties can fetch thousands of euros.
How can I identify Tsingtau stamps?
To identify Tsingtau stamps, look for the distinctive 'KIAUTSCHOU' or 'TSINGTAU' overprint on German Empire stamps, most commonly the 'Yacht' series. Pay attention to the font and placement of the overprint. For precise identification and authentication, consider using a stamp identifier app or consulting a specialized catalog.
Which catalogs list Tsingtau stamps?
Tsingtau stamps are extensively listed in major stamp catalogs, including Scott (under German Colonies), Michel (Germany and Colonies), and Stanley Gibbons (Germany and Colonies). These catalogs provide detailed information on varieties, issue dates, and current market values.
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