Of all areas in philately, Chinese stamps have become among the most highly valued and sought-after pieces for collectors across the world. Be it for historical significance, rarity, or unique design, each stamp conveys a history that belies its physicality.
This post discusses the top 10 most expensive Chinese stamps and gives a peep into this fascinating area of philatelic treasure.
1. The Whole Country is Red Stamp (1968)
Price: $2,000,000
Perhaps the most famous and highly collectible Chinese stamp is the “Whole Country is Red” stamp, issued in 1968. The stamp was a production of the Cultural Revolution and includes an image of smiling Chinese citizens holding Mao Zedong’s “Little Red Book”, thus solidifying their commitment to communism. It is all red, except for Taiwan, which is white due to a design error—also the actual mistake that makes this stamp so very highly rare. The moment the error was recognized, the stamp was withdrawn from circulation. Its rarity and significance have moved it into high demand with collectors; at a 2018 China Guardian auction, one specimen brought $2 million.
2. Red Revenue Small One Dollar, 1897
Price: $889,500
Another highly prized item among philatelists is the Red Revenue Small One Dollar, which was issued in the year 1897. This stamps constituted a revenue stamp originally, having been overprinted for postal use because of a shortage of regular stamps. It displays a red design showing intricate patterns with an overprinted value.
It is rare because the number of stamps overprinted was small, and most of those were used and are long ago thrown away. A mint condition example of this stamp sold for $889,500, becoming one of the highest-priced Chinese stamps ever sold12.
3. The Whole Country is Red Stamp (Error Version)
Price: $1,155,637
Another variety of the “Whole Country is Red” stamp, this one bears the identical design error showing Taiwan in white. Fine; mint condition, original gum never hinged is available here. Desirable with an outstanding error and freshness, it has been fortified as highly crucial among collectors. One such copy realized $1,155,637 at an Interasia auction in December 2018.
4. Red Revenue Surcharge Invert (1897)
Price: $781,860
The Red Revenue Surcharge Invert stamp has an inverted surcharge, which is a printing mistake greatly adding to its value. This was an originally revenue-stamped overprint, but for postal use, hence being highly unique in its invert condition for any collector. One of these rare stamps sold for $781,860, underpinning its importance in the world of philately18.
Price: $824,648
The 1864 Olive Queen Victoria’s Head stamp is considered to be one of the oldest and most highly regarded and very expensive stamps from China. It bears the image of Queen Victoria and was in use during its British colonial period. Since it is so rare and has great historical value, which easily attracts many collectors, once one of such examples of a stamp was sold for $824,648, placing this stamp among the most highly priced Chinese stamps ever sold18.
6. The Red Stamp of 1969
Price: $1,860,000
Another very valuable Chinese stamp is the Red Stamp of 1969. It was issued as part of the Cultural Revolution, and the design on this stamp is red in color with a revolutionary slogan. Being very rare and highly significant historic material in the form of a stamp, it makes it highly collectible. One such example sold for $1,860,000, becoming one of the most dearly bought Chinese stamps ever sold12.
7. Surcharge Invert (1897)
Price: $781,860
Another rare and highly evaluatable postage stamp is that of the 1897 Surcharge Invert. This stamp contains an inverted surcharge, which is a printing mistake that makes it realize high value. The stamp was originally a revenue stamp, overprinted for postal use, and bears an inverted surcharge, thereby being unique in its class. One of these stamps sold for $781,860, underlining the importance and rarity of this postage stamp in the world of philately18.
8. Dowager Empress 60th Birthday (1894)
Price Range: $275 to $6,000
Issued in 1894 and released for the Dowager Empress 60th Birthday, the stamp set was comprised of nine stamps of different denominations and varied in designs. Over time, these stamps have been much valued for their characteristic blending of history and art shamelessly manifested on paper. These stamps may hence cost from $275 to $6,000 depending on each stamp’s condition and rarity.
9. Large Dragons (1878)
Price: Varies
Of the very first Chinese stamps, the Large Dragons of 1878 are highly sought after by collectors. The designs depict a large dragon with three different values: 1-candarin, 3-candarin, and 5-candarin. Being one of the rarest and most historic stamps around, many stamp collectors seek them out because their price varies greatly depending on condition and characteristics.
Q&A
Q: What makes these Chinese stamps so valuable?
A: The value of these stamps is often determined by factors such as rarity, historical significance, condition, and demand among collectors.
Q: How can one identify authentic and valuable Chinese stamps?
A: Authenticity can be confirmed through expert appraisal, examination of key features, and comparison with known originals.
Q: Are Chinese stamps a good investment option?
A: For collectors and investors with a passion for philately, rare Chinese stamps can be a valuable and rewarding investment over time.
Q: Where can one view or purchase these top 10 most expensive Chinese stamps?
A: Exclusive stamp auctions, specialized philatelic exhibitions, and reputable online platforms are common avenues for accessing and acquiring these prized collectibles.
Q: What stories or historical events do these Chinese stamps depict?
A: Each stamp carries a unique narrative, reflecting significant moments in Chinese history, cultural heritage, and artistic expression.
