Issued on September 25, 1945, this provisional overprint stamp from the final phase of the Wang Ching-wei regime features a three-layer surcharge: “50c” in green on “100$” in black, applied over the original matte reddish purple 3$ stamp depicting Dr. Sun Yat-sen. The surcharge was introduced to revalidate high-denomination stocks amid inflation and currency devaluation in the closing months of Japanese occupation. Printed by gravure at the Chung Hwa Book Co. and perforated 12½, this stamp measures 23 x 26 mm and was part of a series intended for daily postal use under the CNC (Central National Currency) system.
This mint never hinged block of four exhibits all three overprint layers clearly and is well-centered with fresh original gum. Reverse shows light toning and some minor paper irregularities but no hinge marks. Catalogued as Scott CN-IM 618, Michel CN-IM 646, Yvert 525, Stanley Gibbons 777, and China Stamp Society 984, this issue stands as a poignant relic of China's wartime economic instability. Estimate "$85 – 100"