Yuan (Li Yuan) (400 BC - 220 BC) front Yuan (Li Yuan) (400 BC - 220 BC) back
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Yuan Li Yuan 400 BC - 220 BC

 
Gold - -
Description
Issuer
State of Chu (Warring States)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
400 BC - 220 BC
Value
Yuan (1)
Currency
Gold block money (401-220 BC)
Composition
Gold
Thickness
4.0 mm
Shape
Irregular
Technique
Cast
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#272506
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Blank (uniface).

Edge

Plain

Comment

The denomination of these pieces seems to be weight-based, with the stamp being a way of validating the block rather than a guide of where to cut these pieces. As such, the weights, sizes, and shapes vary greatly.

Interesting fact

The Yuan (Li Yuan) coin from the State of Chu during the Warring States period (400 BC - 220 BC) made of Gold is interesting because it was one of the first coins to use a standardized weight and measure system, which helped to facilitate trade and commerce across different regions in ancient China.