Collection & Research

The first stamp issue after the founding of the Republic of China for ordinary postage usage comprises 19 denominations in three designs, which are Junk, Reaper and Hall of Classics as major figures. Denominations from 0.5-cents to 10-cents, will draw a junk in full sail with background of a train crossing a large steel bridge, representing national operating is smooth. Denominations from 15-cents to 50-cents will draw a farmer harvesting rice, and on the background above the head of the farmer is the Temple of Agriculture, Peking, with a head of wheat on each side frame, symbolizing the importance of agriculture. Denominations from 1-dollar to 10-dollars, will show a whole front view of the arch of the Hall of Classics, Peking, where the Emperors used to provide lectures on classics. It is said that for this Hall shall contain the meanings of “Hall of Classics is for the Emperor to promote propriety and music, propagate virtue and civilization, and educate the masses to become gentlemen.” This design is also indicating the subject of national-wide education should be provided to the general public. Since the Hall of Classics is also known as the “Palace of Learning”, this design therefore is called “Palace Gate Stamp”. Whole set consists of 19 denominations, and is released from May 5, 1913 (Republic 2nd Year).