China Stamps - 2005-1, Scott 3418 Year of Cock (2005 Yi-you Year) - Imprint block of 4 w/control number - MNH, F-VF (9341B)

China Stamps - 2005-1, Scott 3418 Year of Cock (2005 Yi-you Year) - Mini Sheet - MNH, F-VF : For the convenience of farming production with clear seasonal changes, China traditionally applied the lunar calendar based on the shape of the moon. The order of years was composed of the ten Heavenly Stems and the Twelve Earthly Branches. The combination of Jia, Yi, Bing, Ding etc. in the ten Heavenly Stems and Zi, Chou, Yin, Mao etc in the Twelve Earthly Branches totals 60 kinds, which are called "60 Jia Zi" meaning a cycle of 60 years. Twelve animals match with the twelve Earthly Branches with each representing one year. 2005 is the year of the cock. Therefore, cock is the symbolic animal for people born in this year.