Rare and historically significant Postal Savings stamp from Republican China, bearing a red vertical overprint on the standard 5 cent “Junk” issue (First Peking print), with a prominent Chekiang anti-bandit chop in black. These control chops were applied locally in the 1930s to prevent the misuse of stolen Postal Savings stamps during widespread bandit activity, particularly in rural Zhejiang (Chekiang) province. The overprint is cleanly struck in red, while the bold regional handstamp confirms provincial postal security measures—making this a scarce and sought-after example of Chinese postal and social history intersecting.
As catalogued in specialist references such as Ma and Chan (unlisted in Scott), this stamp belongs to a group of provisional Postal Savings issues known for their low survival rate and erratic documentation. Identifiable Chekiang chops are among the rarest and most desirable in the anti-bandit category, typically applied to the 5c and 10c Junk designs. The reverse bears light archival markings, likely from an early dealer or collector.
This piece has appeared in expert literature and shares similarities with examples offered at InterAsia and Spink auctions. It is a vital addition for advanced collections focused on Chinese Republican postal reform, security overprints, or regional chop varieties.
Condition: Used, strong color, clear overprints front and back, hinge remnant, archival pencil notations.
Estimate: "$400 – 900"