China 1920 – Jia Zhiqian Engraved Lettering Proof – Leather Company, Central China – ACG 64 EPQ
An exceptional Chinese intaglio printing proof featuring a selection of finely engraved English lettering, company names, geographical locations, and monetary denominations, originally engraved in 1920 by the Chinese engraver Jia Zhiqian (贾志谦).
The proof displays various decorative lettering styles, demonstrating the remarkable precision and craftsmanship of early 20th-century Chinese banknote and security printing.
Engraved Inscriptions:
The lettering is executed in elaborate ornamental styles, with fine engraved lines, decorative shading, and intricate details.
The designs are printed in a dark greenish-black color on a single sheet of paper.
Chinese Inscription and Translation:
The Chinese inscription identifies the engraving as:
1920年技师贾志谦雕刻
English translation: "Engraved in 1920 by technician Jia Zhiqian."
The ACG certification label further identifies the piece as:
雕刻版印样 – Engraved Plate Proof Print
Item Details:
Historical Background:
During the early 20th century, Chinese banknote printing underwent significant technical and artistic development, incorporating sophisticated engraving techniques for the production of banknotes, securities, and other valuable documents.
Jia Zhiqian was a Chinese engraver whose work also extended to postage stamp engraving.
This historical lettering proof demonstrates the specialized skills required to create intricate ornamental lettering for security printing.
The engraved names Peking, Tientsin, and Shanghai reflect the historical English spellings of Beijing, Tianjin, and Shanghai.
The different monetary denominations and elaborate company lettering illustrate the versatility of engraved typography used in traditional security printing.
A particularly interesting collectible for enthusiasts of Chinese banknotes, historical engraving, printing proofs, and early 20th-century security printing.
Condition:
Professionally encapsulated and graded ACG 64 EPQ (Choice Uncirculated).
Some minor spotting and discoloration are visible on the paper, particularly near the lower right area and on the reverse, as shown in the photographs.
Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.
Important Note:
This item is a historical engraved lettering proof, not an issued banknote.
The engraving is dated 1920, but the exact printing date of this particular impression has not been independently established.
The lettering proof has not been positively attributed to any particular issued banknote or security document.
The item shown in the photographs is the exact item you will receive.