China Telecom
First set, First Issue
On 18 August 1994, China Telecom issued two sets of cards to commemorate the first nation-wide phonecards. Unlike in the past where telephone cards can only be used in a particular city or province issuing the cards, these cards are usable in all of China except in Shenzhen which uses the GPT system. The first of this set is the 4-card puzzle set illustrating the Great Wall of China called by the Chinese as Ten Thousand Li (5000 km.) Wall. This wall stretches from Shanhaiguan Pass on the East coast of Jiayuguan Pass in the Gobi Desert, across five provinces and two autonomous regions. Construction of the Wall begun over 2000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty when China was unified under Emperor Qin Shilung. It is the only man-made structure visible from the moon. Five cards of values RMB.10, 20, 50,100 and 200 can be put together to show the length of the Great Wall. On each card is inscribed "To commemorate the first issue of the China Nation-Wide phonecard." Qty issued 400,000

Mint set: $160

China Telecom, Second set, First Issue
The second set of All China card consists of the RMB20 with a bouquet of orchids and the RMB50 illustrating the map of China with a caption "Travel the whole country with a card in hand." Qty issued 224,000.

Mint set: $80

China Telecom, Second Issue
Issued on 1st Oct. 1994 to commemorate 45 years of China's founding. The 4-card set are denominated in RMB20, showing China's minorities parading; two cards with RMB50 face values showing the Great Hall of the People and the Forbidden City and the last card in RMB100 face value. Qty issued 242,100.

Mint set: $150

Beijing Telecom

Chinese Orchids
Issued in 1994
Card values are: RMB 20, 50, 100, 200


Mint set: $150