Lot# 9063

airmail sent from Changchow to Georgetown, Penang, franked with one definitive and one commemorative stamp (C13) totaling 5400 yuan, tied by Changchow 55.3.1 cds. It correctly paid the postage for a 10g airmail letter to Asia during the 8th postal rate period (1 Jan 1955 - 31 Aug 1956). At that time, the international surface letter rate for the first 20 grams was 2200 yuan, and the airmail surcharge to Asia was 3200 yuan per 10 grams, making a total of 5400 yuan. During this period, the airmail surcharge had been reduced from 3600 yuan to 3200 yuan per 10 grams, reflecting the adjustment under the RMB postal rate system. This cover is a standard example of a correctly rated airmail letter to Asia during the 8th postal rate period. It shows accurate franking and proper calculation, illustrating the mid-1950s postal reforms and the development of China’s airmail network to Asian destinations. Covers sent from Fukein during this period are particularly scarce, making this a valuable item for postal history study and exhibition.