China 1878 Large Dragons Issue

Name: China 1878 Large Dragons Issue
Brand: China

China · 1878 · 1 Candarin

This stamp, part of the 'Large Dragons' issue, is considered China's first official postage stamp. The central design features a prominent dragon, a powerful symbol of imperial authority and good fortune, set against a background of clouds and waves. The denomination is shown in both Chinese characters and English.

Issued by the Qing Dynasty's Imperial Maritime Customs Post, the Large Dragons series marked China's entry into the global postal system, replacing the earlier municipal and treaty port mail systems.

Printing Method

Engraved

Themes

dragons mythology classic-stamps

Catalog Numbers

sg1

scott1

michel1

Image: · License:

View on Wikimedia Commons

Estimated Values by Condition

Superb(S)

Perfectly centered, fresh, no faults

$2,500

Extremely Fine(XF)

Well centered, fresh colors

$1,500

Very Fine(VF)

Nicely centered, minor flaws

$800

Fine(F)

Average centering, acceptable

$400

Good(G)

Off-center or visible wear

$150

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