Scott No: 3078-82
Serial number: 2001-1
Values in set: 5
Denomination: 5.80 yuan
Date of issue: 1 January 2001
Designer: Zhang Lei
Size:
30*40mm for values 1,2, 5
40*30mm for values 3 and 4
Perforation: 12
Sheet composition: 20
Printing process: offset
Printer: Shenyang Post and Telecommunication Printing Works

The stamp set was issued on January 1, 2001. It is a commemorative stamp set consisting of five stamps with a total face value of 5.80 yuan. The designer is Zhang Lei. It was printed using offset printing by Shenyang Post and Telecommunications Printing Factory in Liaoning Province. It is China Post's first stamp issue of 2001 and is also known as the "new century opening stamp."

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Turn of the Century

The main subject is the China Millennium Monument, accompanied by a sunrise, the Earth, and the time marker "2001.01.01 00:00:00." It captures the historic moment of crossing the millennium and entering the 21st century, symbolizing the transition between the old and new eras.

Peace and Development

A pure white dove of peace flies with spread wings above the Earth, symbolizing China's pursuit of world peace and its commitment to common development, and expressing a beautiful wish for global tranquility.

Protecting Nature

A pair of young hands gently holds up a tender green leaf, conveying the idea of caring for the ecology and protecting the Earth, our shared home, and calling for harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.

Light of Science and Technology

The outline of a human brain is paired with shining points of inspiration, representing human wisdom and technological innovation, and highlighting the infinite possibilities brought by scientific progress in the new century.

Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation

The five-starred red flag stands tall against the rising sun, combined with the element of an ancient sundial. It symbolizes that the Chinese nation, having endured many hardships, is embarking on a journey of great rejuvenation in the new century.

Artistic and Design Features

The stamp set uses a modern graphic design style. The colors are bright and grand. The five images have independent themes while echoing one another, interpreting the grand theme of entering the new century from five dimensions: the era, peace, ecology, science and technology, and national rejuvenation. The visual elements are simple and direct, with symbolic imagery and strong visual impact, fitting the uplifting atmosphere of the turn of the century.