Sun Yat Sen Appraisal

Dr. Sun Yat-sen (Martyrs)

This is a perforated postage stamp featuring a portrait of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a revered figure in Chinese history. The stamp is predominantly in shades of purple or violet, possibly indicating a specific denomination or issue. The central vignette showcases a bust of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, depicted in a formal attire, enclosed within a circular frame adorned with what appears to be a laurel wreath, symbolizing honor and achievement. Above the portrait, at the center, is the emblem of the Kuomintang (KMT), a sun with twelve rays, which is a significant national symbol for the Republic of China. The stamp design incorporates classical architectural elements, such as fluted columns or pilasters, framing the central portrait, suggesting a formal or commemorative style. The denomination '10' is visible in the bottom left and right corners, and Chinese characters are present in the top right and bottom central banner, identifying the issuing entity as '中華民國郵政' (Chunghwa Min Kuo Yu Cheng), meaning 'Chinese Republic Post'. The stamp shows evidence of being used, as indicated by the prominent black cancellation marks over the portrait and surrounding areas. These cancellations consist of several strong, somewhat irregular black lines, obscuring parts of the design. The perforations around the edges are visible, suggesting it was part of a larger sheet. The overall condition appears to be used, with the cancellation being a primary visible condition characteristic. The color appears somewhat faded or muted due to age and potential handling. The resolution of the image makes it difficult to discern fine details, but the general design and historical context point to an early-to-mid 20th-century issuance from the Republic of China. The 'Martyrs' designation often refers to a series particularly honoring individuals like Dr. Sun Yat-sen.