Issued on March 24, 1912, this 5 cent violet stamp from the Republic of China features the iconic coiling dragon and bears an overprint in traditional Sung characters reading “Republic of China,” marking one of the first definitive issues after the fall of the Qing Dynasty. Printed by the Custom Statistical Department in Shanghai in cooperation with Waterlow & Sons Ltd, the stamp was produced using gravure printing on unwatermarked paper and displays variable perforations typical of the period. This denomination was used for regular postal services and holds symbolic and philatelic importance as part of the nation’s transition to republican rule. Cataloged as Michel CN-IM 99, Scott CN-IM 151, and Stanley Gibbons CN-IM 197. Condition: Mint hinged with full gum, fresh color and well-centered impression. Estimate "$55 – 70".