Four Older China Stamps - Need Help!

Hi all,

i'm new to stamp collecting. I inherited a relatively large collection and need some help figuring out the basics (year, category, what the markings on the stamps mean. I have included the images of four stamps from China. I have no idea where to start!

Third stamp is portrait of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen.

1937.

Scott 341.

Catalogue value: 50 cents.

First stamp is more problematic.

Could one of (at least) three options. Depending upon number of perforations as well as engraving details.

If you don't own a copy of Scott Postage Stamp Catalogue recommend using/finding a library copy.

And purchasing a hand-held loop (magnifier). This will allow you to differentiate btwn the details in the various issues.

The first issue of this stamp was released in1913.

Have fun! A great hobby.

Second stamp.

Likely Scott 253.

Issue date: 1923.

Catalogue value: 80 cents.

First two are junk stamps. Google it.

Introduction too the Junk issues:
http://www.paperheritage.co.uk/arti...a-Junks.html

4th stamp.

So why would the first stamp sell for over $100 on ebay (it's actually two stamps connected that are in better condition)

https://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/372695412624

The stamp you posted is very common.

The ebay stamp/s is a rarity.

It's referred to as "imperforate".

Scarcity and condition dictate price/value.

Thanks for the info. I'll start researching basic terms to get a better understanding of this hobby. Thanks for all the responses!

The last (fourth) stamp you posted is part of the "Martyr Issue" series. If the perforation is 14, then it's part of the 1932 - 34 series.

If the perforation is different it's likely from the 1940 -41 series. (The latter series includes what are referred to as "secret marks". Which you find discussed in any good catalogue.).

In either instance the catalogue value is modest.

There are many philatelic resources available on the Internet, ranging in quality from excellent to okay. One of the best is "Stamp Smarter", which recently earned high praise/recognition from the American Philatelic Society. The site is the creative effort of Don Denman, one of this Forum's moderators.

In terms of starting "tools", recommend purchasing a nice pair of tongs (not tweezers), a magnifier (loop), and a perforation gauge. Initially, many collectors relied on Library copies of stamp catalogs. (Older versions can be found on at relatively modest prices.)

Have fun!

You should start by loaning copies of Scott Standard Stamp Catalogue from your local library. This will help you answer a lot of questions. There are usually 6 volumes. Vol 1 Countries A-B, Vol 2 C-F, Vol 3 G-I, Vol 4 J-O, Vol 5 P-S, Vol 6 S-Z. Sort your stamps by countries and get the volume you need from your local library. If your branch don't have it, they can request it from another branch.