Empress Dowager Cixi Birthday Commemorative

China · 1894 · 4 fen

The stamp features a central design of a carp leaping from waves, symbolizing longevity and prosperity, surrounded by traditional Chinese decorative motifs. Chinese characters for the issuing authority and denomination are present at the top and bottom.

Issued to commemorate the 60th birthday of Empress Dowager Cixi, this stamp is one of China's earliest commemorative issues, reflecting the late Qing Dynasty's adoption of modern postal systems while honoring its imperial traditions.