Lot# 9033

these two covers, sent from Peking and Shanghai respectively, are both prepaid at the standard 13,000 yuan rate for 10g to “Other Countries,” defined in this period as non-Asian and non-European destinations. The first, posted 17 August 1950 from Peking to Washington, D.C., is franked with three stamps for 13,000 yuan, tied by “Peking 50.8.17” cds. Sent on the second day of the new tariff period, this cover is a rare early example showing prompt adoption of the revised rates. It was routed via Hong Kong and carried by Pan American Airways (PAA) transpacific service to the United States. The second, posted 18 August 1950 from Shanghai to Pasadena, California, is similarly franked with four stamps for 13,000 yuan, tied by “Shanghai 50.8.18” cds. Posted on the third day of the new period, it followed the same route via Hong Kong for onward transmission by PAA to the U.S. Both covers are exemplary early usages under the 5th Postal Tariff Period, showing accurate franking, correct routing, and the smooth adaptation of the new rate system by the PRC postal service. Early examples of correctly rated airmail to USA from this period are particularly scarce and of strong postal history and exhibition significance.