© Stephen Album Rare Coins
© Stephen Album Rare Coins
2 Cash - Chunxi Yuanbao; Regular script; Shu Tong; with crescent; iron ND
| Iron | - | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Empire of China |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Southern Song dynasty › Xiaozong (宋孝宗) (1162-1189) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1178-1179 |
| Value | 2 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (621-1912) |
| Composition | Iron |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#218085 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
One Chinese ideogram above, one below, and one crescent to the right.
Script: Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Lettering:
舒
同
Translation:
Shu / Tong
Shuzhou (city) / Tong'an (mint)
Edge
Plain
Comment
In 1180, numbers were added to the reverses to indicate the year of issue (which was said to reduce the amount of illegal casting). Presumably, coins without years were cast before the numbers were added.The Tong'an Mint was closed between 1174 and 1178.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique crescent shape on one side, which was a design element that was only used during the reign of Emperor Shu Tong of the Jin Dynasty (1178-1179). This crescent shape was meant to symbolize the moon and its association with the night, and it was believed to have been used as a way to ward off evil spirits. Additionally, the use of iron in the production of this coin was significant, as it was a durable and long-lasting material that was able to withstand the wear and tear of circulation. Overall, this coin is a fascinating piece of history that provides a glimpse into the cultural and economic practices of ancient China.
