This used pair from the 1897 Empress Dowager's Birthday issue features the 1 cent deep red stamp surcharged in small figures with black overprint reading "Temporary use in silver cents," reflecting the transitional phase in China's currency reform. Printed by the Imperial Chinese Post, the base stamp shows classical floral patterns symbolizing longevity and imperial authority, with the denomination indicated as "1 Cn" in each lower corner. The overprint was applied as part of a series of emergency surcharges prompted by the conversion from traditional candarins to cents, following monetary reforms in the late Qing dynasty. Issued on January 2, 1897, this example carries a crisp circular customs cancellation reading "Tientsin FEB 15 98", an important treaty port and commercial hub in northern China. Produced by typography on unwatermarked paper with a rough perforation of 12, the stamps retain strong color and clarity of the overprint. Cataloged as Scott IM29, Chan 48, and referenced in customs records as a key item in early Qing overprint postal history. Condition Fine used horizontal pair with clear cancel and intact margins. Estimate "$220 – 260"