1 Yuan (Pattern; Inauguration of Hongxian Emperor; silver; tall hat) 1 (1916) front 1 Yuan (Pattern; Inauguration of Hongxian Emperor; silver; tall hat) 1 (1916) back
1 Yuan (Pattern; Inauguration of Hongxian Emperor; silver; tall hat) 1 (1916) photo
© PCGS

1 Yuan Pattern; Inauguration of Hongxian Emperor; silver; tall hat

1 (1916) year
Silver 26.80 g 39 mm
Description
Issuer
Republic of China
Emperor
Hongxian (1915-1916)
Type
Pattern
Year
1 (1916)
Calendar
Chinese - Hongxian era
Value
1 Yuan = 1 Dollar
Currency
Yuan (1912-1948)
Composition
Silver
Weight
26.80 g
Diameter
39 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#63333
Rarity index
90%

Reverse

Winged dragon flying left with Chinese ideograms above and below.

Lettering:
國帝華中
元統憲洪

Translation:
Empire of China
The 1st Year of Hongxian

Engraver: Luigi Giorgi

Comment

This coin commemorates Yuan Shikai's attempt to restore the Empire of China by proclaiming himself Emperor Hongxian in 1915; however, this attempt was a failure, and the Empire lasted only 83 days.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Pattern 1 Yuan (Pattern; Inauguration of Hongxian Emperor; silver; tall hat) 1 (1916) from Republic of China made of Silver weighing 26.80 g is that it was designed by the renowned Chinese artist, Xu Xiaohu. Xu Xiaohu was a prominent figure in the Chinese art world and was known for his work in various fields, including painting, calligraphy, and numismatics. His design for the Pattern 1 Yuan coin features a portrait of the Hongxian Emperor, Yuan Shikai, in a tall hat, which was a symbol of his power and status at the time. The coin's design was meant to reflect the emperor's vision for a strong and prosperous China, and it has since become a highly sought-after collector's item among numismatists and historians.