© Ken Dorney
© Ken Dorney
1 Cash Kaiyuan Tongbao; Tan ND
| Lead | 3.78 g | 24 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain Chinese kingdoms (Ten Kingdoms) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 907-927 |
| Value | 1 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (907-971) |
| Composition | Lead |
| Weight | 3.78 g |
| Diameter | 24 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#319989 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
One Chinese ideogram to the left.
Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Lettering: 潭
Translation:
Tan
Tanzhou (mint)
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.
Tanzhou was renamed to Changsha in 927.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was made of lead, which was a common material used for coinage during the Ten Kingdoms period in China. Despite being made of a relatively soft and inexpensive material, the coin still features detailed engravings and calligraphy, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry of the time.