© Teutoburger Münzauktion
© Teutoburger Münzauktion
1 Cash Kaiyuan Tongbao; Nan; with number ND
| Lead | 2.76 g | 23 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Chinese kingdoms (Ten Kingdoms) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 917-971 |
| Value | 1 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (907-971) |
| Composition | Lead |
| Weight | 2.76 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#319995 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
One Chinese ideogram above and one below.
Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Lettering:
南
四
Translation:
Nan Si
South / 4
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 several small kingdoms in southern China, which were known for their artistic and literary achievements, as well as their use of lead currency. The Kaiyuan Tongbao coin was one of the most widely used coins during this time, and it features a unique design that reflects the cultural and economic influences of the period.
