Scott No: 1851-1852
Serial number: T85
Values in set: 2
Date of issue: May 24, 1983
Denomination: 28 fen
Designers: Ren Yu
Engraver: Li Qingfa, Sun Hongnian
Size of stamps: 60*27mm
Perforation: 11
Sheet composition: 35 (5*7)
Printing process: Engraving and photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

T85 "Chinese Alligator" special stamps were issued on May 24, 1983. The set consists of 2 stamps, printed by photogravure combined with engraving, designed by Ren Yu, engraved by Li Qingfa and Sun Hongnian, and printed by the Beijing Stamp Factory.

Theme of the Set

The Chinese alligator, called "tuo" in ancient times, is a rare relict reptile unique to China and a national first-class protected animal, known as a "living fossil." At the time, its wild population was sparse and on the verge of extinction. This set popularizes the Chinese alligator among the public, presents its unique biological appearance, calls for the protection of this rare species, and safeguards its wetland habitat.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Majestic Posture

The image shows an adult Chinese alligator lying among shallow water and aquatic plants, with the texture of the scales on its back clearly visible and a steady posture. The Chinese alligator inhabits the wetlands of the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. It is an ancient aquatic reptile with high scientific value for the study of biological evolution.

Hatching from the Egg

The image presents alligator eggs and newly hatched young alligators, with the young ones' markings distinctly visible. The newborn young symbolize the continuation of the population, implying that through protection and breeding, the Chinese alligator species can continue from generation to generation.

Artistic Design Features

With a fresh grass-green background setting off the Chinese alligator's form, the engraved lines are solid, depicting the scales and skin texture in fine detail. The two stamps respectively present the adult Chinese alligator and the newborn young, completely showing the continuation of the species' life. Avoiding a fierce impression, the style is realistic and soft. It is a highly representative special stamp on the theme of rare animal protection of the 1980s.