1 Cash - Anonymous (Kaiyuan Tongbao; Lan; with crescent) ND (841-907) front 1 Cash - Anonymous (Kaiyuan Tongbao; Lan; with crescent) ND (841-907) back
1 Cash - Anonymous (Kaiyuan Tongbao; Lan; with crescent) ND (841-907) photo
© Arusak

1 Cash - Anonymous Kaiyuan Tongbao; Lan; with crescent ND

 
Bronze 2.69 g 25 mm
Description
Issuer
Empire of China
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
841-907
Value
1 Cash
Currency
Cash (621-1912)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
2.69 g
Diameter
25 mm
Thickness
1.2 mm
Shape
Round with a square hole
Technique
Cast
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#188120
Rarity index
88%

Reverse

Chinese ideogram to the right with crescent at various locations.

Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)

Lettering:

Translation: Lan

Edge

Plain

Comment

In late 841, it was decided to replace the 'Chang' of Huichang coins with actual mintmarks. These mintmarks are often difficult to read due to being hand-stamped into the moulds, resulting in a higher relief more prone to wear.

Some, like Calgary Coins, assume the mintmark-less Kaiyuan pieces were not minted after 841, and that the mintmarked pieces were continued until the end of the Tang dynasty.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a crescent shape on one side, which is a symbol of Islam. This is significant because it suggests that the Empire of China, which was predominantly Buddhist, had trade and cultural exchange with Islamic regions during this time period. This coin, minted during the reign of Emperor Kaiyuan, was likely used for everyday transactions and circulated widely throughout the empire, highlighting the diversity and inclusivity of the Tang Dynasty.