1 Cash (Kaiyuan Tongbao; Bao; with number) ND (907-971) front 1 Cash (Kaiyuan Tongbao; Bao; with number) ND (907-971) back
1 Cash (Kaiyuan Tongbao; Bao; with number) ND (907-971) photo
© Teutoburger Münzauktion

1 Cash Kaiyuan Tongbao; Bao; with number ND

 
Lead 3.34 g 23 mm
Description
Issuer
Uncertain Chinese kingdoms (Ten Kingdoms)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
907-971
Value
1 Cash
Currency
Cash (907-971)
Composition
Lead
Weight
3.34 g
Diameter
23 mm
Shape
Round with a square hole
Technique
Cast
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#319991
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

One Chinese ideogram to the right and one to the left.

Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)

Lettering: 二寶

Translation:
Bao Er
[Uncertain meaning] / 2

Edge

Plain

Comment

These small lead pieces are imitating Kaiyuan Tongbao pieces from the Tang dynasty.

These circulated widely, with the Chu authorities fixing the rate of 1 Lead Cash to 100 Bronze Cash. These were mostly restricted to circulating within towns, and were likely cast unofficially by merchants or the people.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was used during a time of great cultural and economic change in China, known as the Ten Kingdoms period. This period saw the rise of various kingdoms and dynasties, and the coinage of the time reflects the diverse cultural influences and political developments of the era. The Kaiyuan Tongbao coin, in particular, was issued by several different kingdoms, and its design and production varied depending on the region and ruler. Despite its variations, the coin remained a widely used and important form of currency during this time, and its existence provides valuable insight into the economic and social history of ancient China.