very rarepre-1900

China, 1878-1885, Large Dragons (First Issue)

Name: China, 1878-1885, Large Dragons (First Issue)
Brand: China

China · 1878 · 1 candarin

This stamp is part of the first official postage stamp series issued by the Qing Dynasty in China, known as the 'Large Dragons'. The design features a prominent dragon, a powerful symbol of imperial authority and good fortune, set against a background of clouds and water. The denomination is shown in both English ('1 CANDARIN') and Chinese characters.

Issued by the Imperial Maritime Customs Post, the Large Dragons marked China's entry into the global postal system and the beginning of a standardized national mail service, replacing various local and foreign postal systems.

Printing Method

Engraved

Themes

mythology dragons classic-stamps imperial-china

Catalog Numbers

sg1

scott1

michel1

Image: · License:

View on Wikimedia Commons

Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$1,500

Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$1,000

Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$650

Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$300

Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$100

Prices are approximate market estimates for educational purposes. Actual values depend on specific factors including cancel type, margins, and provenance.