© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
1 Cash - Shaoxi Yuanbao; Tong; with year; iron
| Iron | 4.44 g | 25 mm |
| Issuer | Empire of China |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Southern Song dynasty › Guangzong (宋光宗) (1189-1194) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 2-5 (1191-1194) |
| Calendar | Chinese - Shaoxi era |
| Value | 1 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (621-1912) |
| Composition | Iron |
| Weight | 4.44 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Thickness | 2.0 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#140837 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
One Chinese ideogram above with year below.
Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Lettering:
同
四
Translation:
Tong / Si
Tong'an (mint) / Year 4
Edge
Plain
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was made of iron, which was a unusual choice of material for coins at that time, as most coins were made of copper, silver or gold. The use of iron in coinage was seen as a way to reduce the cost of production and make the currency more accessible to the general population. This decision was taken by the government of the Empire of China during the reign of Emperor Guang Zhao, who ruled from 1189 to 1194. The iron coins were issued in five different denominations, with the 1 Cash coin being the smallest denomination. Despite being made of a less valuable material, these coins were still carefully crafted and featured intricate designs, showcasing the skill of the mint workers and the attention to detail of the Chinese government.
