Rare Qing Dynasty Pair: 1897-1901 Chinese Imperial Post "Coiling Dragon" Stamps (3c & 4c Used)
Expand your early Asian or classic worldwide philatelic collection with this striking, postally used pair of iconic Qing Dynasty "Coiling Dragon" stamps. Expertly designed and produced by Waterlow & Sons in London for the Chinese Imperial Post, these legendary issues remain a foundational cornerstone of any serious Chinese postal history collection.
This lot features two essential denominations displaying beautiful, distinct coloration and genuine period postmarks:
3-Cent Blue-Green: A highly detailed specimen featuring a rich, deep blue-green hue. The intricate central Coiling Dragon motif stands out sharply against the tight web background. It bears a clear, postally applied black ink cancellation on the right side. The reverse reveals an honest, light corner crease at the bottom left, characteristic of authentic, survived postals of this era.
4-Cent Orange-Brown: A vibrant, well-centered piece presenting the traditional orange-brown/pale brown shade. It features a sweeping, bold black circular postal cancel cutting cleanly across the face. The back of the stamp retains excellent paper texture with a tiny, faint historic hinge remnant at the top edge, adding a touch of classic philatelic provenance.
Collectors Note:
Because these are being offered unvetted for specific watermark configurations, an astute bidder has the exciting potential to discover either the scarce 1898 watermarked Yin-Yang variety or the classic 1901 unwatermarked London printing.
These two pieces are sold together as a single lot, presenting a fantastic opportunity to secure two distinct denominations of early Chinese postal history in one definitive purchase.
Images form part of the condition report. Sold as is. Bid with confidence to add these magnificent Imperial Dragons to your album today!
