Serial number: 2004-23
Values in set: 2
Denomination: 160 fen
Date of issue: September 30, 2004
Designer: Fang Jun
Size of stamp:
38*30mm for Value I;
30*38mm for Value II
Perforation: 13
Sheet composition:
8 for Sheet I; 8 for Sheet II(4 sets)
Printing process: Gravure
Printer: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing House

The special‑issue stamp set National Flag and National Emblem of the People’s Republic of China was released on September 30, 2004. The set comprises two stamps with a combined face value of 1.60 yuan. Full sheets, souvenir sheets and self‑adhesive versions were issued simultaneously. Designed by Fang Jun, with Shi Yuan as the responsible editor, the stamps were printed by Beijing Stamp Printing Factory using the photogravure process. The national flag and national emblem are the symbols and insignia of the People’s Republic of China. Adopting a solemn and realistic style, this stamp set displays their official standard forms to promote the National Flag Law and the National Emblem Law, and foster patriotism.

The national flag of the People’s Republic of China is the Five‑Star Red Flag. Its red field symbolizes revolution, while the five golden stars and their arrangement signify the unity of people of all ethnic groups under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. The national emblem features Tiananmen Gate, a gear and grain ears as its core motifs, representing national history, the working class and the peasantry respectively, embodying the nature of China’s people’s democratic dictatorship. The national flag and national emblem embody national dignity and national sentiment. Used on formal occasions such as grand celebrations and diplomatic ceremonies, they serve as a tangible carrier of national identity and patriotic devotion for all citizens. By issuing this set of stamps, China Post presents the solemn imagery of national symbols on tiny stamp surfaces, encouraging the whole society to respect and cherish the national flag and national emblem, and inspiring citizens’ patriotic passion and national pride.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

National Flag

The design fully presents the official specification of the Five‑Star Red Flag. The bright red field appears fluttering in the wind, with the five golden stars laid out in standard proportions. Light‑and‑shade effects recreate the texture of a waving flag, delivering a bright and solemn colour tone.

National Emblem

The pattern shows the official standard version of the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China. Elements including Tiananmen Gate, the gear and grain ears are reproduced completely and accurately. Set against a red background, the golden ornaments highlight the dignified and lofty symbolic meaning of the national emblem.

Artistic Design Features

The horizontal stamp format boasts a concise and grand composition. Colours strictly comply with the legally defined hues for the national flag and emblem: rich and pure red paired with bright, substantial gold. The uncluttered and solemn design excludes redundant decorations. Photogravure printing delivers precise and saturated colour reproduction. Multiple anti‑counterfeiting technologies are applied, including security paper, anti‑counterfeit ink and fluorescent coding. The souvenir sheet features a neat, dignified layout with a simple and majestic style.

As a special‑issue stamp set themed on national symbols, available in souvenir‑sheet and self‑adhesive formats, it is ideal for thematic philatelic collections of national insignia and patriotism.