China’s Cultural Revolution Stamps: Rarity and Value
China’s Cultural Revolution stamps from the People’s Republic of China are gaining immense interest and value in philately. These stamps, which were never issued for use, have become highly sought after by collectors. In a recent auction in Hong Kong, a set of four stamps featuring Mao’s 1968 Inscription to Japanese Worker Friends sold for over $1.15 million. The auction, which also included pre- and post-revolutionary Chinese stamps, raised more than $12 million. This demonstrates the breathtaking level of interest and excitement surrounding stamps from the Cultural Revolution era. Many of these stamps have seen their value increase by 200% or more in the last few years.
Key Takeaways:
- China’s Cultural Revolution stamps from the People’s Republic of China are highly sought after by collectors.
- A set of four stamps featuring Mao’s 1968 Inscription to Japanese Worker Friends sold for over $1.15 million.
- Stamps from the Cultural Revolution era have seen a significant increase in value in recent years.
- The demand for these stamps is expected to continue rising.
- Philatelists value these stamps for their rarity and historical significance.
The Whole Country is Red stamp, 1968
One of the most valuable Chinese stamps from the Cultural Revolution era is The Whole Country is Red stamp, issued in 1968. This stamp features Mao’s Inscription to Japanese Worker Friends and bears the slogan “the whole country is red.” What makes this stamp particularly rare and valuable is a design mistake – the small island of Taiwan is left in white, contrasting with the overall red design. The stamp was quickly withdrawn from the market after the error was detected. It is unclear how many copies with this mistake still exist, but they are considered extremely rare. One of the finest specimens of The Whole Country is Red stamp sold for $445,103, while another example fetched 13.8 million yuan (approximately $2 million).
This visually striking stamp showcases Mao’s Inscription to Japanese Worker Friends, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. The rarity of The Whole Country is Red stamp contributes to its desirability among collectors, making it a highly sought-after piece in the world of philately.
10¢-on-9-candareen dark green stamp, 1897
Another notable stamp from China’s philatelic history is the 10¢-on-9-candareen dark green stamp from 1897. This stamp is part of the Empress Dowager issue and is highly sought after by collectors. It is believed that only three samples of this stamp have survived, with only one unused specimen known. This particular stamp, previously owned by Sir Percival David, was sold for an impressive price of HK$6,100,000 (roughly $933,300). The stamp is described as having exceptional margins, bright color, and fresh condition, making it a true rarity in Chinese philately.
The Empress Dowager Issue
The 10¢-on-9-candareen dark green stamp is part of the Empress Dowager issue, a series of stamps produced during the Qing Dynasty in pre-revolutionary China. This issue is highly regarded for its intricate designs and historical significance. The stamps reflect the rich cultural heritage and political climate of the time.
- The Empress Dowager issue features a variety of denominations and designs, each showcasing different aspects of Chinese art and history.
- Collectors are particularly drawn to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of these stamps.
- Due to their limited production and historical significance, stamps from the Empress Dowager issue are considered rare and highly valuable.
As philatelists continue to explore and appreciate the beauty and significance of the 10¢-on-9-candareen dark green stamp and other stamps from the Empress Dowager issue, their rarity and value are expected to remain strong in the world of Chinese philately.
Red Revenue Large Figures Surcharge $1 on 3c Stamp, 1897
The Red revenue large figures surcharge $1 on 3c stamp is considered one of the most attractive Chinese stamps. Only 32 of these stamps were ever released, and all of them have been preserved till today. The stamp was printed during a significant period in China’s history, under the Qing dynasty, when the country underwent a currency reform. The surcharge was printed with the dollar symbol, commemorating this reform. However, a printing mistake led to the dollar symbol being printed too small, making stamps with this smaller imprint highly valuable.
One such stamp, in excellent condition, sold for $878,908. Another example with fresh color and bright condition fetched $669,934.
Olive-colored Queen Victoria’s Head, 1864
The olive-colored Queen Victoria’s Head stamp, issued in 1864, stands as one of the most prized and expensive Chinese stamps. Originally meant to be printed in a brownish-grey hue, a printing error resulted in the production of 52 stamps in an olive color. Adding to its uniqueness, the watermark and placement of the word “CC” were also incorrect. Today, only 40 of these stamps are known to exist, with just one block of four, which was auctioned for an impressive $820,000. Additionally, a single stamp in mint condition fetched $88,895. The scarcity and printing error of this stamp contribute to its rarity and astonishing market value.
5 cash Elephant Essay, 1878
The 5 cash Elephant Essay is a highly sought-after stamp in Chinese philately. This exquisite stamp showcases an honored Chinese ceremonial animal, the elephant, elegantly carrying a pot of growing cycas. The imagery of the elephant symbolizes constant change and regeneration, while the two bats flying above represent joyfulness and good cheer.
Due to its significance and rarity, only a few examples of this remarkable stamp are known to exist today, making it a true collector’s gem. In a 2016 auction, an Elephant Essay sold for an incredible $463,000, demonstrating the high demand and immense value placed on this exceptional piece of philatelic history. Additionally, a fine horizontal pair of the Elephant Essay fetched $96,300 in 2018, further highlighting its desirability and investment potential.
The Red Maiden in the Green Robe stamp, 1897
The Red Maiden in the Green Robe stamp, also known as the 2-cent small figure surcharged on red revenue stamps in green, is a fascinating philatelic item from the Qing Dynasty. During a currency reform, stamps with face value in silver could no longer be printed, leading to the creation of “temporary” stamps. The Red Revenue stamp was imprinted with a green ink, and only nine such stamps are believed to have survived. In 2004, a fine copy of this stamp was sold for $444,477.
Blue Military Stamp, 1953
The Blue Military stamp, issued in 1953, holds a unique place in philatelic history. Originally intended for soldiers to send letters, these stamps encountered an unexpected transparency issue. The paper used for the stamps was slightly transparent, posing a risk of confidential information being leaked during military correspondence. Consequently, most mint stamps were destroyed, leaving only a small number of stamps that had already been used to remain in circulation.
Due to the transparency issue, Blue Military stamps are now exceptionally rare. Today, only a handful of these stamps have survived the test of time, making them highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
In 2011, a fine specimen of the Blue Military stamp broke records when it fetched an impressive $428,654 at auction. This highlights the rarity and extraordinary value associated with this particular piece of Chinese philately.
The inverted Sun Yat-sen stamp, 1941
The inverted Sun Yat-sen stamps, featuring China’s “Father of the Nation,” are highly coveted by collectors. These stamps were issued in 1941, but only one sheet of fifty has inverted portraits. Today, only two pairs of this error are known to exist, making them extremely valuable. In 2011, a specimen of this stamp sold for $222,237, setting a world auction record for any Republic of China stamps at that time.
Conclusion
China’s Cultural Revolution Stamps have captivated collectors and philatelists worldwide, thanks to their rarity and historical significance. These stamps have experienced a remarkable surge in value in recent years, solidifying their status as highly sought-after collectibles. From iconic pieces like The Whole Country is Red stamp to the fascinating inverted Sun Yat-sen stamp, each of these stamps serves as a tangible link to China’s vibrant cultural and political past.
As the demand for China’s Cultural Revolution Stamps continues to grow, their value is predicted to appreciate further. These stamps have evolved beyond mere postage to become treasured cultural artifacts and potential investment opportunities. With their unique combination of philatelic allure and historical importance, China’s Cultural Revolution Stamps hold both sentimental and monetary worth in the world of philately.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone with a keen interest in history, exploring the world of China’s Cultural Revolution Stamps is a captivating endeavor. Each stamp carries a story and provides a window into a defining era, offering a tangible connection to the past. As the market for these stamps continues to thrive, their rarity and value make them an exciting addition to any philatelic collection.
