This 2 cent red stamp from the 1897 “Dragon, Jumping Carp, and Flying Goose” series of Imperial China illustrates a coiled dragon, a potent symbol of imperial authority and cosmological power. Printed via lithography by the Tsukiji Type Foundry Co. in Japan, the stamp is distinguished by its vibrant red ink and bilingual inscriptions, reflecting Qing China's modernizing postal system at the turn of the 20th century. Issued on October 1, 1897, and valid until April 1, 1914, this definitive stamp displays irregular perforations and is lightly cancelled with a partial black strike from Amoy (廈門), a treaty port known today as Xiamen. The cancellation includes traditional Chinese characters, enhancing its postal and cultural interest. Though lightly worn on the reverse with reddish ink seepage and lacking visible gum, the stamp retains strong visual appeal. Listed in key catalogs as Michel CN-IM 32, Scott CN-IM 83, Yvert et Tellier CN-IM 31, Stanley Gibbons CN-IM 93, and China Stamp Society CN-IM 98, this is a desirable piece for collectors of early imperial philately. Estimate "$20 – 35"