© Stacks Bowers
© Stacks Bowers
1 Mace Pattern ND
1868 year| Silver | 3.75 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Empire of China |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Qing dynasty › Tongzhi (同治帝) (1861-1875) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1868 |
| Value | 1 Mace / Qian (0.1) |
| Currency | Kwanping Tael (1868) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.75 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#243343 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Two Chinese ideograms within wreath.
Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Lettering:
一
錢
Translation:
Yi Qian
1 Mace
Comment
Not much was known about this series for a very long time, from the dates these were struck to the mints that struck them. The Berlin Mint, the Royal Mint, and the Osaka Mint had all been proposed, but it is now certain these come from the Royal Mint in London. The original dies were proposed in 1867, with the circulating coins meant to be struck at the Hong Kong Mint; however, that mint closed in 1868, and production never took place.These coins are thought to be an attempt at a national currency; however, it is theorized that these could have been intended to be used in trade with Korea, based on the design.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Pattern 1 Mace (Pattern) ND (1868) from Empire of China made of Silver weighing 3.75g is that it was designed by a French engraver named Charles Fremine, who was employed by the Imperial Government of China to create a new currency system for the country. The coin features a unique blend of traditional Chinese and Western design elements, reflecting the cultural exchange and influence of the time.
