Lot# 9064

during this period, the airmail surcharge rate to Eastern Europe was reduced from 5,400 yuan to 4,800 yuan (or 48 fen) per 10g, with the basic surface letter rate for the first 20g at 2,200 yuan (22 fen). The total postage for a 10g airmail letter to Eastern Europe thus became 7,000 yuan (70 fen in new RMB). The first cover, posted on 27 September 1955 from Peking to Jena, mixed with five old and new RMB Currency stamps, totaling 7,000 yuan, a fine example of mixed-currency franking during the transitional phase. The second, mailed on 13 October 1955 from Peking to Lauenhain, bears the same correct rate of 7,000 yuan, representing standard airmail postage to East Germany. Both covers illustrate the accurate application of the new East European airmail rate during the 8th Postal Tariff Period and reflect the smooth adjustment between old and new currency systems in mid-1950s China, making them significant examples for postal history study and exhibition.