Lanarkshire Philatelic Society

"China"

Mr. Albert Tong

Members of the Lanarkshire Philatelic Society viewed a fascinating display at their meeting on Friday evening (6th February).

This was written up in Chinese script! Fortunately the English translation was given as well, by Albert Tong, with the aid of many stamps, took members through a great deal of Chinese History.

He began from 1878 with the first Chinese Empire Stamps – the ‘large dragons’ which were inscribed with ‘CHINA’ in both Latin and Chinese characters and denominated in candareens.

In 1897 the Chinese Imperial Post issued stamps of 12 values in cents and dollars and these continued in use until the end of the Empire. China then faced much turmoil through the years and often stamps were overprinted by conquering forces. Also various foreign Post Offices opened in China to facilitate the movement of mail.

In 1949 the country came under Communist control and became "The People’s Republic of China". The regional stamp issues were ceased and replaced by a unified issue of stamps of 9 values showing designs of ‘lantern and the Gate of Heavenly Peace.’ 

In 1993 a special stamp was issued to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Birth of Chairman Mao.

The second half of the evening was given to ‘themes’ – these stamps have been issued in recent years and there were many stamps and covers showing the Terracotta Warriors. Other issues depicted Education, Agriculture and Industry, Art, Music, Pottery, Murals, Shadow Puppets and Stone Carvings.

Albert also had a delightful small teapot and cups – and he showed a Stone personal seal and a tin with red paste – used in lieu of a signature on documents, office paperwork, etc.

Alan Wishart gave thanks to Albert for a thoroughly interesting display.

Our next meeting in the Caledonian Bowling Club, Motherwell Road, Hamilton, is on Friday, 20th February 2015, at 7:30pm when members, will give their displays based on the letters ‘L.P.S’.

Anyone with an interest in stamps, postal history, postcards etc is very welcome to attend.