1 Tael - Xianfeng (Issued by Yu Sen-sheng; engeraved by Feng-nien) 6 (1856) front 1 Tael - Xianfeng (Issued by Yu Sen-sheng; engeraved by Feng-nien) 6 (1856) back
1 Tael - Xianfeng (Issued by Yu Sen-sheng; engeraved by Feng-nien) 6 (1856) photo
© PCGS

1 Tael - Xianfeng Issued by Yu Sen-sheng; engeraved by Feng-nien

6 (1856) year
Silver 36.70 g -
Description
Issuer
City of Shanghai (Kiangsu Province)
Emperor
Xianfeng (1850-1861)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
6 (1856)
Calendar
Chinese - Xianfeng era
Value
1 Tael
Currency
Tael (1856)
Composition
Silver
Weight
36.70 g
Shape
Round
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#274614
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Four columns of four Chinese ideograms each, read vertically from right to left.

Script: Chinese

Lettering:
匠重傾朱
豐壹曹源
年兩平裕
造銀實監

Translation:
Supervised by Chow Yuen Yu
Exact weight of
1 silver Tael
Made by Feng-nien, silversmith

Comment

While Shanghai had no mint before the 1930s, various Shanghai silversmiths minted coins for circulation in 1856. These were authorized by the Taotai (a government official) to help facilitate trade and to replace the vanishing Mexican 8 Reales pieces.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was issued during the Xianfeng era (1850-1861) of the Qing dynasty, a time of great social and economic change in China. The coin's design features a stylized dragon on one side and a Chinese character on the other, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. Additionally, the coin was made of silver, which was a valuable and highly sought-after metal at the time, and its weight of 36.70 grams makes it a substantial piece.