Scott No: -
Serial number: 2012-26
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: November 8, 2012
Denomination: 120 fen
Designer: Xu Kaiqiang, Rao Jian
Designer of S/S: Hao Xudong
Size of stamps: 30 * 50 mm
Perforation: 13.5
Sheet composition:
16 for Sheet I (8 sets);
8 for Sheet II (4 Sets)
150 * 240 mm for Sheet I;
159 * 146 mm for Sheet II
Denomination of S/S: 600 fen
Size of S/S: 160 * 70 mm
Size of S/S Stamp: 109 * 48 mm
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

Commemorative Stamps 2012-26 **The 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China** were officially issued on November 8, 2012, coinciding with the grand opening of the 18th CPC National Congress, to warmly celebrate the convening of the Congress. The full set contains two stamps with a face value of 1.20 yuan each, totalling 2.40 yuan. One souvenir sheet was released simultaneously with a face value of 6 yuan. Designed by Xu Kaiqiang and Rao Jian, the stamps were printed in photogravure by Beijing Stamp Printing House.
Each stamp measures 40mm×30mm, and the two designs are printed horizontally se-tenant. The souvenir sheet measures 92mm×126mm, with the stamp inside sized 34mm×45mm. Multiple anti-counterfeiting technologies are adopted, including security paper, security ink, special-shaped perforations and fluorescent inkjet codes. With solemn and dignified layout design, this is an important set of commemorative stamps featuring red political themes.

The stamp set consists of two chapters: **Scientific Development** and **Carry Forward the Past and Forge Ahead into the Future**. It reviews brilliant achievements made by China along the path of scientific development since the 16th National Congress of the CPC, and envisions a promising prospect that the Party will lead the whole nation in continuous struggle to advance national rejuvenation. The souvenir sheet creates a festive atmosphere of nationwide celebration. Closely keeping pace with the times, the whole work depicts a scene of vigorous national development, peace and prosperity under the leadership of the Communist Party of China.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Scientific Development

Design: A Shenzhou spacecraft together with its launch tower, radiating red rays in the background, peonies decorating the bottom.
History: Manned space engineering stands as a landmark achievement of China’s scientific and technological innovation in the new century, embodying remarkable accomplishments gained through adhering to scientific development and promoting independent innovation.
Significance: Symbolises fruitful achievements in comprehensive, coordinated and sustainable development of China’s economy, science and technology in the new century.

Carry Forward the Past and Forge Ahead into the Future

Design: The Great Wall stretches across the frame with a peace dove spreading its wings, complemented by morning glow and peony patterns.
History: The Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation, and the peace dove symbolises peaceful development.
Significance: Implies that Chinese Communists will inherit their historical mission, carry forward the past and forge ahead, and unite all ethnic groups to march bravely along the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

Souvenir Sheet: Celebration

Design: The solemn Party Emblem of the Communist Party of China is placed at the top; the main image shows the Great Hall of the People. The bottom edge is decorated with traditional auspicious floral patterns, with bright red serving as the dominant tone.
History: The Great Hall of the People was the venue of the 18th CPC National Congress; the red tone enhances the festive ambience.
Significance: Expresses the sincere sentiments of people of all ethnic groups welcoming the 18th CPC National Congress, uniting efforts to create a bright future.

Features of Artistic Design

1. Layout: The two regular stamps are printed horizontally se-tenant, connected by interpenetrating light rays in the middle, achieving visual integration of the whole picture.
2. Colour Palette: Red and gold dominate the entire set, creating a festive and passionate tone matching the solemn and uplifting atmosphere of the Party Congress.
3. Symbolism: Peonies represent prosperity, the Great Wall embodies the backbone of the nation, and aerospace elements stand for scientific and technological innovation; all symbols are distinct and easy to interpret.
4. The souvenir sheet features concise and solemn composition, highlighting the Party Emblem and the Congress venue with clear hierarchy, delivering strong expression of the red theme.

Issued on the opening day of the 18th CPC National Congress, this stamp set bears remarkable commemorative value. It is a vital red philatelic item within the Party Congress series. Collectors may assemble a complete thematic collection combining stamps covering the 1st through the 18th National Congress of the CPC. Distinctive of its era and prominent in thematic expression, the set has long been cherished by enthusiasts of red philately, occupying an important position in collections themed on Party history and major national conferences.