Scott No: 3275
Serial number: 2003-S4
Values in set: 1
Denomination: 80 fen
Date of issue: 19th May. 2003
Designer: he Jie and Feng Xiaohong
Size of stamps: 30*40 mm
Perforation: 13.5*13
Sheet composition: 12
Printing process: photogravur
Printer: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing House

This is a special-issue stamp titled United as One in the Fight Against SARS, issued on May 19, 2003, with a face value of 80 fen, designed by He Jie and Feng Xiaohong and printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Works using the photogravure process.

Special-prefix stamps are issued for major sudden events. This stamp was urgently issued by China to fight the SARS epidemic. All proceeds from the stamp were donated to the health authorities to support the frontline fight against the epidemic, paying tribute to the medical workers fighting on the front lines and highlighting the powerful strength of the entire nation united in the fight against the epidemic.

This stamp was born during the critical period of SARS prevention and control in 2003. In the face of the sudden outbreak, medical workers bravely charged forward despite the dangers, and people from all walks of life across the country worked together, throwing themselves into the battle against the disease. The stamp uses visual symbols to record this historical moment of nationwide epidemic response, conveying the belief of unity and overcoming difficulties together, and commemorating the dedication and sacrifice of the medical warriors in white.

Stamp Design and Historical Background

United as One in the Fight Against SARS

The main image consists of a ring of red hearts, representing the care and unity of the people across the country. Inside the ring is the word "SARS," with a red diagonal slash through the text, an internationally recognized prohibition symbol, signifying the blocking and defeat of the epidemic. Below the design is the theme text "United as One in the Fight Against SARS." The border of the miniature sheet features sketch portraits of medical workers wearing masks, paying tribute to the frontline medical workers who charged forward. The heart ring symbolizes the hearts of millions of people connected as one, gathering the powerful force to fight the epidemic.

Artistic and Design Features

The stamp uses a modern graphic design style. The composition is simple and powerful, with a strong contrast between red and black, creating a striking visual impact. The photogravure printing uses red fluorescent ink for the red hearts and slash, which can display fluorescent effects under ultraviolet light. The design omits complex realistic scenes, using symbolic graphic language to express the theme, simple and direct with profound meaning. The miniature sheet has a special layout, with the upper right corner left blank and paired with a sketch of medical workers, echoing the unity of the people with the steadfastness of the medical guardians, capturing the historical memory of this nationwide epidemic response.