Scott No: 1790
Serial number: J78
Values in set: 1
Date of issue: June 20, 1982
Denomination: 8 fen
Designer: Xu Yanbo
Size of stamps: 30*40mm
Perforation: 11.5*11
Sheet composition: 50(10*5)
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

J78 Commemorative Stamp: China Population Census was issued on June 30, 1982. The set contains one stamp printed in photogravure, designed by Xu Yanbo and produced by Beijing Stamp Factory.

Theme Overview

This was the Third National Population Census of the People’s Republic of China, with the census reference time set at zero hour on July 1, 1982, amid the drive for modernization under reform and opening-up. The population census clarified the size, structure and distribution of China’s population, providing fundamental data for the state to formulate economic and population development plans. The stamp serves to publicize the great significance of the population census.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Chinese Character “Ren” and Clock

The main motif is a clock integrated with the Chinese character “ren” (person), with its hour hand pointing to twelve o’clock. The text “Reference Time: 00:00, July 1, 1982” is printed at the top of the stamp, marking the unified reference time for registration of this census. At the centre of the clock lies the depiction of Tiananmen, symbolizing that the census is a nationwide survey of national conditions. Closely centered on the core of population census, the symbolic graphic conveys the idea that the census helps understand national population conditions and serves national development.

Artistic Features

It adopts a simple and modern decorative style with fresh and harmonious colours and a compact, balanced composition. The creative combination of the character “ren” and a clock translates the abstract concept of population census into straightforward visual language. Free from redundant ornamentation, it carries distinct contemporary vibes and ranks as a classic commemorative stamp on the population census theme.