2 Cash - Shaosheng Yuanbao; Seal script ND
| Bronze | 6.85 g | 30 mm |
| Issuer | Empire of China |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Northern Song dynasty › Zhezong (宋哲宗) (1085-1100) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1094-1097 |
| Value | 2 Cash |
| Currency | Cash (621-1912) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 6.85 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#30269 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 78% |
Reverse
Blank (uniface).
Edge
Plain
Comment
Hartill says Su Shi designed some coins of Zhezong, but does not specify which era he designed coins for. Because Sima Guang would have designed the coins for the Yuanyou era, and because Su Shi was banished in 1094, it is likely Su Shi designed the coins for the Shaosheng era.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of traditional Chinese characters and imagery, such as the seal script symbol for "yuanbao" (元宝) which means "original treasure," and the square hole in the center, which represents the earthly element of the five elements. Additionally, the coin's weight of 6.85 grams and its bronze composition were carefully chosen to ensure durability and longevity, reflecting the importance of the coin as a medium of exchange in ancient China.
