© Stacks Bowers
© Stacks Bowers
Qi knife Ji Mo Fa Hua 401 BC - 220 BC
| Bronze | 27.35 g | 157 mm |
| Issuer | State of Qi (Warring States) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 401 BC - 220 BC |
| Currency | Knife money (401-220 BC) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 27.35 g |
| Diameter | 157 mm |
| Shape | Knife |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#272806 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Various Chinese ideograms on the blade with three horizontal lines near the tip.
Lettering: 上
Translation: Shang
Edge
Plain
Comment
These are attributed to the State of Qi, and are largely found in the Shandong area. While the characters on the obverse are constant, those on the reverse have a lot of variations.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Qi knife coin is that it was used as a form of currency during the Warring States period in ancient China, and it was also used as a weapon for self-defense. The coin's design features a knife-like shape, which gave it its name "Ji Mo Fa Hua" or "Qi knife." This unique design made it both a practical tool and a symbol of wealth and power.
