1 Cash - Chunxi Yuanbao; Regular script; Chun; with year; iron
| Iron | - | 24 mm |
| Issuer | Empire of China |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Southern Song dynasty › Xiaozong (宋孝宗) (1162-1189) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 7-16 (1180-1189) |
| Calendar | Chinese - Chunxi era |
| Value | 1 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (621-1912) |
| Composition | Iron |
| Diameter | 24 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-03 |
| Numista | N#217825 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
One Chinese ideogram above and at least one below.
Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Lettering:
春
八
Translation:
Chun / Ba
Qichun (mint) / Year 8
Edge
Plain
Comment
In 1180, numbers were added to the reverses to indicate the year of issue (which was said to reduce the amount of illegal casting). Presumably, coins without years were cast before the numbers were added.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was used as a form of currency during the Southern Song Dynasty in ancient China, specifically between 1180 and 1189. It was made of iron and had a standardized design, featuring the character "chun" (春) on one side and the year of minting on the other. The use of iron as a material for coins was a common practice during this time period, as it was abundant and durable. This coin, in particular, was valued at 1 cash, which was a significant amount during that era. Despite its age, some of these coins have been well-preserved and are now highly sought after by collectors.
