U.S. Post China Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About U.S. Post Offices in China Stamps
U.S. Post China refers to the postal administration established by the United States within China, primarily operating in treaty ports and concessions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This unique postal entity existed in East Asia, often alongside the Imperial Chinese Post and other foreign administrations like the British and French. Stamps issued under this authority typically bore English inscriptions and denominations in U.S. currency, reflecting American administrative control in specific treaty port areas until the service was eventually relinquished. This period marks a significant chapter in the extraterritorial postal history of China before the nation achieved full postal autonomy.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Asia
- Subregion:
- East Asia
- Issuing period:
- 1919 – 1922
- Languages:
- English
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
U.S. Post Offices in China stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular U.S. Post Offices in China Stamp Series
Overprinted U.S. Stamps (1919-1922)
Regular U.S. postage stamps overprinted with 'CHINA' and new denominations in U.S. currency for use in treaty ports.
Parcel Post Stamps (1919)
U.S. Parcel Post stamps overprinted 'CHINA' for specific postal services.
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issuer:us-post-china.series.items.2.description
U.S. Post Offices in China Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Values vary significantly based on the base U.S. stamp, the specific overprint, condition, and whether it's used or unused. High values are often associated with rare varieties, errors, or high denominations.
How to Identify U.S. Post Offices in China Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying U.S. Post Offices in China stamps:
- 1 Look for 'CHINA' overprint on U.S. postage stamps.
- 2 Denominations are in U.S. currency (cents and dollars).
- 3 The base stamps are identifiable as standard U.S. issues of the period (e.g., Washington-Franklin series).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are U.S. Post China stamps?
U.S. Post China stamps are U.S. postage stamps that were overprinted with 'CHINA' and sometimes new denominations, specifically for use in U.S. postal agencies operating in Chinese treaty ports and concessions between 1919 and 1922. They facilitated postal services for American citizens and businesses in these areas.
Are U.S. Post China stamps valuable?
Yes, many U.S. Post China stamps can be quite valuable, especially those with rare overprints, errors, or higher denominations. Common issues might range from $5 to $50, while rare varieties can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Condition plays a crucial role in their value.
How can I identify U.S. Post China stamps?
To identify U.S. Post China stamps, look for the distinctive 'CHINA' overprint on standard U.S. postage stamps from the early 20th century. The denominations will be in U.S. currency. Using a stamp identifier app can help confirm the specific issue and overprint variety, providing details on its history and potential value.
Which catalogs list U.S. Post China stamps?
U.S. Post China stamps are extensively listed in major philatelic catalogs. You can find them in the Scott Standard Postage Stamp Catalogue (under U.S. Possessions or Offices Abroad), the Michel catalog, and the Stanley Gibbons catalog, often with dedicated sections or listings within the U.S. entries.
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