1 Cash - Chunxi (Yuanbao; Regular script; Li; iron) ND (1174-1179) front 1 Cash - Chunxi (Yuanbao; Regular script; Li; iron) ND (1174-1179) back
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1 Cash - Chunxi Yuanbao; Regular script; Li; iron ND

 
Iron - 24 mm
Description
Issuer
Empire of China
Emperor
Southern Song dynasty › Xiaozong (宋孝宗) (1162-1189)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1174-1179
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
References
Numista
N#217826
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

One Chinese ideogram above.

Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)

Lettering:

Translation:
Li
Lizhou (city)

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

The 1 Cash coin from the Empire of China, made of iron and issued during the reign of Emperor Renzong (1174-1179), features a unique design element - a small hole in the center of the coin. This hole was intentionally added to the coin to make it easier for people to thread a string through it and wear it as an amulet, which was a common practice during that time. This feature not only made the coin more practical for everyday use but also symbolized the coin's value and significance as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.