Japanese 2 Sen Chrysanthemum Stamp, Meiji Period

This item is a Japanese postage stamp, specifically a 2 Sen denomination stamp from the Meiji Period, likely part of the Chrysanthemum issue (Kiku series). The stamp features a central vertical panel with Japanese characters, flanked by ornate scrollwork and circular motifs. The color is predominantly a dark forest green ink on off-white paper. On the left circular motif, the letters 'N.S' are visible, while the right motif displays the numeral '2', indicating its 2 Sen denomination. Below the central panel, a stylized chrysanthemum emblem, a prominent imperial symbol of Japan, is clearly depicted. Further below, a banner contains more Japanese script, reading right to left. The overall design is intricate, characterized by detailed line engraving and Victorian-era aesthetics common in early stamps. The stamp exhibits perforation along all four edges, indicating it was separated from a sheet. Visible condition issues include some creasing or a fold mark running vertically through the right side of the central Japanese characters and the numeral '2'. There is also a cancellation mark, appearing as a partial circular or oval ink mark, predominantly in black, obscuring the lower right corner of the stamp and extending slightly onto the lower right margin. The paper appears slightly toned with age, and there are minor imperfections typical of a used stamp, such as slight corner wear and possibly a faint hinge mark on the reverse (though not visible in this image). The craftsmanship suggests a high level of detail for its time, typical of official government printing. While the user provided context of 'Chinese stamp', the markings, particularly the chrysanthemum symbol and script, are indicative of Japanese origin.