1 Yuan / 1 Dollar Pattern; Founding of the Republic: Yuan Shikai; "Big Beard dollar" ND
1912 year| Silver | - | 39 mm |
| Issuer | Republic of China |
|---|---|
| Period | Republic (1912-1949) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1912 |
| Value | 1 Yuan = 1 Dollar |
| Currency | Yuan (1912-1948) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Diameter | 39 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-03 |
| Numista | N#242602 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Two Chinese ideograms within wreath surrounded by English legend.
Lettering:
THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA
壹
圓
ONE DOLLAR
Translation: 1 Yuan
Comment
This coin was struck at one of the Soochow Mints, and while this coin is often said to depict Cheng Te-chuan, that is likely incorrect, with the actual person being Yuan Shikai.For more information about this coin only known by patterns, see here:
https://www.coinworld.com/news/precious-metals/mysterious-chinese-coin-in-champions-macau-auction--on-the-block.html
Krause and Kann both report two other varieties: one with eyes in relief and another made of copper; however, Krause notes that all known examples of those two are counterfiets.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Pattern 1 Yuan / 1 Dollar coin from Republic of China made of Silver is that it features a portrait of Yuan Shikai, the first president of the Republic of China, on the obverse, and a vignette of the Temple of Heaven on the reverse. The coin was designed by the Tianjin Mint and was intended to be used as a standard circulating coin, but it was never officially released due to the political instability of the time. As a result, only a small number of pattern coins were produced, making them highly sought after by collectors today.
