Overview
This is a definitive postage stamp featuring Dr. Sun Yat-sen that has been modified with multiple overprints to change its face value.
Identification
Republic of China Dr. Sun Yat-sen Surcharged Stamp, c.1945-1949
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
This heavily modified stamp serves as a paper witness to the extreme economic turmoil of post-WWII China, where hyperinflation rendered currency and postage practically worthless overnight.
Maker / Origin
Rather than designing new issues, the Nationalist Government desperately repurposed millions of existing 1938-1941 Dr. Sun Yat-sen base stamps to keep pace with collapsing currency values.
Condition & Value
For stamps of this turbulent era, pristine centering, intact perforations, and the presence of original gum dramatically separate premium auction lots from common bulk filler. The stamp appears to be unused (mint) but shows significant 'toning' or yellowing on the reverse side.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The valuation of this stamp hinges entirely on its status as a printing error. A direct comparable sale of a Sun Yat-sen double overprint error (Chan S32c / Scott 990 var.) achieved $190 in 2019, firmly establishing the baseline for genuine double-strike mistakes. Secondary market context shows that while standard bulk inflation surcharges are common, specialized regional sets (such as the 1949 Shensi or Fukien surcharges) reliably secure $210 to $220. The absolute ceiling for major typography errors on these base stamps is demonstrated by a 1943 Kweichow inverted surcharge that sold for approximately $833. Because the subject item is currently unauthenticated, the FMV is positioned conservatively at $150–$250; an uncertified error carries significant risk for buyers and will not reach the upper echelon of the error market without a formal certificate.
Value Drivers
▲ Presence of a genuine, visually distinct double-strike overprint error
▲ Underlying scarcity of the specific 1938-1941 base stamp variety
▲ Condition of the stamp, including centering, intact perforations, and original gum
▲ Authentication certificate from a recognized philatelic authority (CSS or PF)
Concerns
▼ Lack of formal authentication drastically reduces buyer confidence due to rampant overprint forgery
▼ If the 'double over' refers to an intentional double-revaluation rather than a press error, value drops to $10-$30
▼ Hidden faults such as thins, creases, or altered perforations heavily penalize stamp values
Best Venue
Stamp Auction Network (SAN) or specialized philatelic auction houses (e.g., Cherrystone, Spink China) to reach dedicated Asian philately collectors who pay premiums for errors.
Upside Potential
Formal authentication by the China Stamp Society combined with a high-grade condition assessment could push the value toward the $300-$500 range if the specific regional overprint is scarce.
Authenticity Notice
High risk. Faked surcharges and overprints are a notoriously pervasive problem in Republic of China philately. A certificate of authenticity from the China Stamp Society (CSS) or the Philatelic Foundation (PF) is essentially mandatory to realize error-premium prices at auction.
The upgraded report is now attached to this item.