2 Cash - Yuanfeng (Tongbao; Running script; iron) ND (1078-1085) front 2 Cash - Yuanfeng (Tongbao; Running script; iron) ND (1078-1085) back
2 Cash - Yuanfeng (Tongbao; Running script; iron) ND (1078-1085) photo
© Kölner Münzkabinett Tyll Kroha Nachfolger UG

2 Cash - Yuanfeng Tongbao; Running script; iron ND

 
Iron 12.5 g 34 mm
Description
Issuer
Empire of China
Emperor
Northern Song dynasty › Shenzong (宋神宗) (1067-1085)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1078-1085
Value
2 Cash
Currency
Cash (621-1912)
Composition
Iron
Weight
12.5 g
Diameter
34 mm
Shape
Round with a square hole
Technique
Cast
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#214119
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Blank (uniface).

Edge

Plain

Comment

The iron 2 Cash pieces are said to have been cast in the Shaanxi region, although there are two notable exceptions: Baofengxia Mint, which cast these pieces to export to Shaanxi; and Xunzhou Mint, which cast these pieces in Shaanxi-style.

There are also many mints within the same circut as various Shaanxi mints, located in Gansu, Henan, and Shanxi, which may have also cast these iron 2 Cash pieces.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was made of iron, which was a unusual material for coins at that time, as most coins were made of copper, silver or gold. The use of iron in coinage was likely a response to a shortage of other metals, and it was a common practice in ancient China to use iron for coins during times of economic stress.