This 1897 half cent stamp, issued under the Qing Dynasty as part of the Imperial Chinese Post’s “Coiling Dragon” series, depicts a finely detailed imperial dragon framed by lattice borders and bilingual inscriptions, symbolizing strength and sovereignty. Printed by Tsukiji Type Foundry Co. using lithography, the stamp features brown purple ink and displays the denomination “½” in both Chinese and English, flanking “IMPERIAL CHINESE POST.” The issue measures approximately 21 x 26 mm and comes with various perforation types, as was typical for early Qing postal emissions. It bears a watermark featuring variations of the traditional yin-yang symbol, used as a security feature. These stamps were in circulation until the Republic’s reforms in 1914. The design and denomination reflect both domestic use and China’s adaptation to modern international postal systems during a period of profound political transformation. It is catalogued as Michel CN-IM 35, Scott CN-IM 86, Yvert et Tellier CN-IM 34, Stanley Gibbons CN-IM 96, and China Stamp Society CN-IM 101. Condition: lightly hinged with mild hinge remnants, good color and centering, and a crisp design. Estimate "$70 – 90".