Question: What is the “C” sometimes seen on the red dragon tile and why are some Red Dragon tiles shown with a symbol while others look like an actual dragon?

Answer: The symbol depicted on the red dragon tile translates to the Chinese symbol “chung,” which means “center.” It is sometimes referred to as “hung chung,” signifying “red center.” Additionally, it’s worth noting that the Chinese name for China is “Central Nation,” and these connections provide insights into why the “C” is found on the Red Dragon tile.

Source: MAH-JONGG from Shanghai to Miami Beach written by Christina Cavallaro and Anita Luu