I am selling a set of two vintage Chinese special stamps featuring the "Yangtze Alligator." Catalog Number: T.85 (Complete set of 2) Issue Date: May 24, 1983 Issuing Authority: Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of the People's Republic of China The Yangtze alligator gets its name from its habitat in the Yangtze River in China. The Yangtze alligator is a rare animal endemic to China, found in the border region of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces. China has designated the Yangtze alligator as a first-class protected animal and has established reserves and breeding bases. This special stamp was issued on May 24, 1983, to raise awareness about the protection of rare animals. The design of Stamp 1 (top) is titled "雄姿勃勃" (Magnificent Appearance). The Yangtze alligator in the picture has a very unique appearance, resembling a fish but not quite a fish, like a dragon but not quite a dragon, and reminiscent of a giant lizard. Its back and belly are flat, its tail is flattened from side to side, and its entire body is covered with a horny carapace. The way it raises its head and looks around is like a warrior in armor, truly imposing. The color and pattern of the Yangtze alligator's skin are ancient and simple, reminiscent of unearthed bronze artifacts. The patterns are raised like bas-relief, and the arrangement and design are varied, yet harmonious overall. The design of Stamp 2 (bottom) is titled "破殼而出" (Breaking Out of the Shell). The stamp design depicts ten alligator eggs, some already hatched, some in the process of hatching, and some just about to hatch. The newborn baby alligators have colorful markings, and the mother alligator is watching over them with affection while being vigilant of the surroundings. In this stamp series, "Yangtze Alligator" and its Latin scientific name, Alligator sinensis, are written together in the upper left of the design, creating a sense of unity on the screen and harmonizing science and art. The light green background color represents the tranquility and harmony of nature, as well as symbolizing strong vitality. These are actually used vintage stamps, and I believe they are in good condition for used vintage items. Please check the images for details. No returns or exchanges. Shipping costs will be covered by me.