200 Yuan Stamp Appraisal

Chiang Kai-shek Republic of China 200 Yuan Postage Stamp

This is a vintage postage stamp from the Republic of China featuring a portrait of Chiang Kai-shek. The stamp is characterized by its rectangular shape with perforated edges, indicative of its philatelic purpose. The central image is a bust portrait of Chiang Kai-shek, rendered in a muted color palette, possibly sepia tones or a light brown, set against a circular, lighter background, possibly cream or light blue. The circular portrait is framed within an elaborate, rectangular border that appears to be blue or grayish-blue. This border features neoclassical architectural elements, including columns and decorative motifs, suggesting a formal and official design. Above the portrait, there is an emblem resembling the 'Blue Sky with a White Sun' national emblem of the Republic of China, positioned centrally. Text in traditional Chinese characters is visible around the border. In the upper right and left corners, there are vertical Chinese characters, and at the bottom, horizontal characters reading 'Zhong Hua Min Guo You Zheng' (‘Republic of China Post’). The denomination '200' is clearly visible in the lower left and right corners, likely indicating 200 Yuan. The stamp exhibits signs of use, primarily a prominent, heavy black cancellation mark that runs diagonally across the portrait and over parts of the denomination and border. This cancellation mark has obscured some details but confirms the stamp's postal use. The condition of the paper itself shows some discoloration and age-related wear, and the perforation integrity appears generally good, though some edges might show minor softening or separation. The overall aesthetic suggests a stamp from the mid-20th century, likely during Chiang Kai-shek's leadership.