Lot# 9012

airmail cover sent from Suntong to Timaru, franked with 13 Central China and South China stamps, totaling 11,800 yuan (RMB). The cover bears “Suntong 1950.2.12” cds and “Canton 50.2.13” transit on reverse. It was routed via Canton, then conveyed through Hong Kong and carried by Qantas Airways via Australia to its destination in New Zealand. This cover was mailed during the 2nd Postal Tariff Period of the RMB postal system (February 10 to March 4, 1950). During this period, the airmail rate to “Other Countries” (non-Asian destinations) was raised from 10,800 yuan under the 1st Postal Tariff Period to 11,800 yuan. The new rate comprised 2,300 yuan for the first 20 grams of international surface postage, plus an air surcharge of 9,500 yuan per 10 grams, totaling 11,800 yuan. The postage was accurately paid, and the markings are clear, demonstrating that Suntong, as a second-class post office, was able to adopt and implement the new rates promptly by the third day of the new tariff period. This efficiency reflects the high level of administrative organization and execution within the newly established postal system of the early People’s Republic of China. A correctly rated and fully prepaid airmail cover to Oceania from the early days of the 2nd Postal Tariff Period, this example features complete postal routing and accurate franking. It vividly illustrates the unification and modernization of the RMB postal rate system and the early restoration of international airmail operations via Hong Kong in the early 1950s. A rare and representative example of early PRC airmail, this cover holds significant postal historical importance and strong exhibition value.