Scott No: -
Serial number: 2008-23
Values in set: 1
Date of issue: September 20, 2008
Denomination: 120 fen
Designer: Shi Yuan
Size of stamps: 40 * 30 mm
Perforation: 12 * 11.5
Sheet composition: 12
Printing process: Offset
Printing House: Henan Postage Stamp Printing Works

On September 20, 2008, the commemorative stamp "50th Anniversary of the University of Science and Technology of China" (catalog number 2008-23) was officially issued, coinciding with the university's founding anniversary. The set consists of one stamp with a face value of 1.20 yuan, designed by Shi Yuan and printed by Henan Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory using offset printing. This is the first time China Post issued a commemorative stamp for a university celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) was founded in Beijing in 1958, with its first president being Guo Moruo. Adhering to the motto "Red and Expert, Integrating Theory and Practice," and leveraging its unique model of "whole academy supporting the university and combining research with education," USTC has become one of China's top institutions for science and technology, often referred to as the "cradle of scientific talent." Over its fifty-year history, the university has cultivated numerous high-level scientific researchers and produced significant research achievements. China Post issued this stamp to commemorate USTC's half-century of educational excellence, showcasing the development of higher education in science and technology in China, and promoting the spirit of truth-seeking and innovation.

Stamp Design and Historical Background:

50th Anniversary of the University of Science and Technology of China

Image: The center features the deep blue USTC emblem, depicted as an atomic nucleus, surrounded by golden atomic orbital curves, highlighting the university's focus on science and technology. The background features a faint gray "50" pattern, with subtle molecular structures and chip code symbols, and the founding years "1958–2008" in the upper left corner.
Significance: The design is closely tied to the theme of scientific exploration, symbolizing the university's fifty-year commitment to fundamental science and its continuous pursuit of scientific advancement.

Artistic and Design Features:

The stamp features a simple horizontal format with a clear visual hierarchy and a clean, refined composition. The deep blue and gold color scheme conveys both a rigorous scientific spirit and a solemn anniversary atmosphere. The graphic elements, centered on atoms and orbitals, align with the university's identity. The oval-shaped perforations add a distinctive feature, while the offset printing provides smooth, detailed colors and a modern, minimalist design.

This stamp set belongs to the category of university anniversary commemorative stamps, holding unique historical significance as the first stamp issued for a 50th university anniversary. Available in stamp set and large sheet formats, collectors often pair it with other university anniversary stamps, such as those for Peking University and Fudan University, making it an important item for thematic collections on science and education, and higher education institutions.