Six round, metal coins from the Pre-Qin period, each depicting subjects of the Chinese Zodiac. All but one of the coins depict dragons. The other coin illustrates the Twelve Earthly Branches, which are used in combination with Heavenly Stems to designate years, months, days and hours. Unlike the dragon coins, this coin has not been carved through and instead the characters and images have been depicted in relief. Worn together as Amulet.
Six round, metal charm coins, depicting various illustrations and characters in relief. Each coin has a hole in its centre, one of which is square, the others round. Worn together as Amulet.
(1) One circular charm coin. Approximately circular central hole. One side presents worn Chinese characters disposed in two concentric ring: eight characters in the inner ring and sixteen characters in the outer ring. (2) One circular charm coin. Circular central hole. One side presents worn striated patterning. (3) One circular charm coin. Square central hole. One side presents four worn Chinese characters. Inscriptions do not match any genuine currency suggesting this is a charm coin. (4) One circular charm coin. Circular central hole. One side presents serpentine patterning piercing surface of coin.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 咸豐重寶 (xianfeng zhongbao). Reverse presents three Chinese characters 當五十 (dang wushi or value fifty wen) and two Manchu characters boo yuwan (Beijing Board of Works mint). From the Xianfeng era (1851-1861 AD) of the reign of Emperor Wenzong (1850-1861 AD).
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 元祐通寶 (yuanyou tongbao). From the Yuanyou era (1086-1094 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 永昌通寶 (yongchang tongbao). From the Yongchang era of the reign of rebel Emperor Li Zicheng (1644-1645 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 昭武通寶 (zhaowu tongbao). Reverse presents two Chinese characters 壹分 (yifen or one fen of silver). From the reign of rebel military commander Wu Sangui (1674-1678 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 崇寧通寶 (chongning tongbao). From the Chongning era (1102-1106 AD) of the reign of Emperor Huizong (1100-1126 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 裕民通寶 (yumin tongbao). Reverse presents two worn Chinese characters 壹錢 (yiqian or one qian of silver). From the reign of rebel military commander Geng Jingzhong (1674-1676 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 端平通寶 (duanping tongbao).From the Duanping era (1234-1237 AD) of the reign of Emperor Lizong (1224-1264 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 大順通寶 (dashun tongbao). Reverse presents the Chinese character 工 (gong) referring to the Board of Works. From the Dashun era of the reign of rebel Emperor Zhang Xianzhong (1644-1646 AD).
One circular charm coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 泰和重寶 (taihe tongbao). Reverse presents moulded design of sun moon and crossed swords. From the Taihe era (1201-1208 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhangzong (1189-1208 AD).
(1) One charm coin with a circular body surmounted by a bell-shaped flange and ring. Diamond-shaped central hole. One side presents four worn Chinese characters situated within moulded rings. Design pierces coin material at several points. (2) One circular charm coin. Circular central hole. Both sides present designs and writing in two concentric bands. On one side the outer band comprises the Eight Diagrams or pa kua and the inner band their corresponding Chinese characters. On the other side the outer band comprises the zodiacal animals representing the Twelve Terrestial Branches and the inner band their corresponding Chinese characters. (3) One charm coin with a circular body surmounted by a semi-circular flange with rings at either side. Circular central hole. Both sides present five Chinese characters. (4) One charm coin with a circular body surmounted by a bell-shaped flange pierced on either side. Square central hole. Both sides present four Chinese characters.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 乾元重寶 (qianyuan zhongbao). Reverse exhibits double rim indicating that this is a value fifty coin. From the Qianyuan era (758-760 AD) of the reign of Emperor Suzong (756-762 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 壹分 (one fen) either side of ancient Chinese spade money motif. Reverse presents eight Chinese characters 中華民國二十六 (the twenty-sixth year of the Republic of China or 1937) defining an arc over a twelve-pointed star motif.
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents six Chinese characters and two Manchu characters comprising (top) 四川省造 (minted in Sichuan province); (sides) boo chuwan (Chengdu Sichuan province mint); (bottom) 當十 (value ten). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads SZE CHUEN TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents six Chinese characters and two Manchu characters comprising (top) 四川省造 (minted in Sichuan province); (sides) boo chuwan (Chengdu Sichuan province mint); (bottom) 當十 (value ten). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads SZE CHUEN TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國 (the Republic of China) and (bottom) 開國紀念幣 (coin commemorating the birth of the Republic of China) surrounding a central design of crossed flags bordered on either side by botanical motifs. Reverse outer circumference reads THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding a central wreath motif within which are two Chinese characters 十文 (ten wen).
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 湖南省造 (minted in Hunan Province) and (bottom) 當二十銅元 (value twenty bronze coin) surrounding a central crossed flags motif. Obverse also exhibits wear and pitting. Reverse outer circumference reads THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA TWENTY CASH in English-language script surrounding a central botanical motif. (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents ten Chinese characters comprising (top) 湖南省造 (minted in Hunan Province) and (bottom) 當製錢二十文 (value twenty wen) surrounding a central crossed flags motif. Reverse outer circumference reads THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA TWENTY CASH in heavily worn English-language script surrounding a central botanical motif. (3) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents ten Chinese characters comprising (top) 湖南省造 (minted in Hunan Province) and (bottom) 當製錢二十文 (value twenty wen) surrounding a central crossed flags motif. Reverse outer circumference reads THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA TWENTY CASH in English-language script surrounding a central botanical motif.
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents seven Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters with the exception of the rightmost which is identifiable as boo; (sides) 清江 (Qingjiang Jiangsu province); (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads CHING KIANG in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (2) One circular coin. Left side of obverse outer circumference presents part of Chinese character 江 (Jiang) but coin is otherwise worn to the point of illegibility. Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads CHING KIANG in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents six Chinese characters and two Manchu characters comprising (top) 江西省造 (minted in Jiangxi province); (sides) boo chang (Nanchang Jiangxi mint); (bottom) 當十 (value ten). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding a central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads KIANG - SEE 10 CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents seven Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters with the exception of the rightmost which is identifiable as boo; (sides) 清江 (Qingjiang Jiangsu province); (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads TSING - KIANG TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (3) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents eleven Chinese characters and two Manchu characters comprising (top) 江蘇省造 (minted in Jiangsu province); (sides) boo su (Suzhou Jiangsu province mint); (bottom) 每元當製錢十文 (each coin valued ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads KIANG - SOO 10 CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents eight Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters except for the rightmost which is identifiable as boo; (sides) 戶部 (Ministry of Revenue); (bottom) 當製錢二十文 (each coin valued twenty wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao). Reverse outer circumference reads HU POO 20 CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents twelve Chinese characters comprising (top) 福建官局造 (minted by Fujian Custom house); (sides) 閩關 (Fujian Custom); (bottom) 每枚當錢十文 (each coin valued ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao). Reverse outer circumference reads F. K. CUSTOM – HOUSE 10 CASH in English-language script surrounding cebtral dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 奉天省造 (minted in Fengtian province) and (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding two Manchu characters fung boo (Fengtian Manchuria province mint). Reverse outer circumference reads FUNG-TIEN PROVINCE TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Gunagxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents eleven Chinese characters comprising (top) 安徽省造 (minted in Anhui province) and (bottom) 每元當製錢十文 (each coin valued ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding two Manchu characters boo an (Nanking for Anhui mint). Reverse outer circumference reads AN-HWEI TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 大中通寶 (dazhong tongbao) and one character on the reverse 十 (shi) denoting the value of ten. From the reign of Zhu Yuanzhang as the Prince of Wu (1361-1368 AD). (2) One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 天啓通寶 (tianqi tongbao) and reverse two characters 十 (shi) denoting the value of ten (shi) and 一兩 (yi liang) denoting a weight of one liang. From the Tianqi era of the reign of Emperor Xizong (1620-1627 AD). (3) One circular charm coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 正德通寶 (zhengde tongbao) and reverse a moulded design depicting a dragon and phoenix. Characters refer to Zhengde era of the reign of Emperor Wuzong (1505-1521 AD). However no official currency ever was issued with this period title. This is an example of a charm coin that has continued to be made up to the present day. (4) One circular charm coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 大觀通寶 (daguan tongbao); reverse presents a moulded design depicting a snake tortoise and constellations. Characters refer to the Daguan era (1107-1110 AD) of the reign of Emperor Huizong (1100-1126 AD). However decorated reverse suggests that this is not genuine currency but a charm coin.
One rectangular box containing three antique Chinese coins. Box covered in pale pink fabric embroidered with a pattern of circles and diamonds containing floral motifs in red green and yellow stitching. Inside lid of box presents placard providing details of coins [transliteration required] Box interior presents coins resting obverse side up on a bed of red felt bounded by a yellow felt border. A loop of red string links rightmost coin to an official authenticating seal located in the upper right corner. Coin details are as follows: (left) one circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 五銖 (wu zhu). From the 1st Century BCE to the 6th Century AD. (middle) one circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 元祐通寶 (yuanyou tongbao). From the Yuanyou era (1086-1094 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD). (right) one circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 開元通寶 (kaiyuan tongbao). Kai Yuan early type (621-718 AD).
One round, copper coin with an irregularly shaped hole in its centre, used as a Tartar amulet. The coin has details in relief on both sides, which is possibly Iranian (Arabic) writing.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 至道元寶 (zhidao yuanbao). From the Zhidao era (995-997 AD) of the reign of Emperor Taizong (976-997 AD).
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 元豐通寶 (yuanfeng tongbao). From the Yuanfeng era (1078-1085 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shenzong (1067-1085 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 紹興元寶 (shaoxing yuanbao). Lower inner circumference of coin worn through in two places. From the Shaoxing era (1131-1162 AD) of the reign of Emperor Gaozong (1127-1162 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 元祐通寶 (yuanyou tongbao). From the Yuanyou era (1086-1094 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 元豐通寶 (yuanfeng tongbao). From the Yuanfeng era (1078-1085 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shenzong (1067-1085 AD).
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Large chip on rim. Corroded beyond legibility.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 政和通寶 (zhenghe tongbao). From the Zhenghe era (1111-1118 AD) of the reign of Emperor Huizong (1100-1126 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 皇宋通寶 (huangsong tongbao). Spans the period between the fourth (Baoyuan) and seventh (Huangyou) eras (1038-1054 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 大觀通寶 (daguan tongbao). From the Daguan era (1107-1110 AD) of the reign of Emperor Huizong (1100-1126 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 天禧通寶 (tianxi tongbao). From the Tianxi era (1017-1022 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhenzong (997-1022 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 皇宋通寶 (huangsong tongbao). Spans the period between the fourth (Baoyuan) and seventh (Huangyou) eras (1038-1054 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 元祐通寶 (yuanyou tongbao). From the Yuanyou era (1086-1094 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 開元通寶 (kaiyuan tongbao). Reverse presents small crescent-shaped mark. Kai Yuan of indeterminate type from 621-907 AD.
One round, bronze coin with a square hole in its centre, depicting Chinese characters in relief, from the Northern Song Dynasty, during the rule of Emperor Shenzong (1068-1085AD). There are characters on one side of the coin only, which read ‘Xi Ning Yuan Bao’.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 紹聖元寶 (shaosheng yuanbao). From the Shaosheng era (1094-1098 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 天聖元寶 (tiansheng yuanbao). Reverse outer circumference presents arcing mark. From the Tiansheng era (1023-1032 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 宋元通寶 (songyuan tongbao). Spans the period between the first (Jianlong) and third (Kaibao) eras of the reign of Emperor Taizu (960-976 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 景德元寶 (jingde yuanbao). From the Jingde era (1004-1007 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhenzong (997-1022).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 嘉祐通寶 (jiayou tongbao). From the Jiayou era (1056-1063 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 治平通寶 (zhiping tongbao). From the Zhiping era (1064-1067 AD) of the reign of Emperor Yingzong (1063-1067 AD).
One round, bronze coin with a square hole in its centre, depicting Chinese characters in relief, from the Northern Song Dynasty, during the rule of Emperor Renzong (1023-1063AD). There are characters written in seal script on one side of the coin only, which read ‘Huang Song Tong Bao’.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 熙寧元寶 (xining yuanbao). From the Xining era (1068-1077 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shenzong (1068-1085 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn and corroded Chinese characters 天聖元寶 (tiansheng yuanbao). From the Tiansheng era (1023-1032 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 紹聖元寶 (shaosheng yuanbao). From the Shaosheng era (1094-1098 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 皇宋通寶 (huangsong tongbao). Spans the period between the fourth (Baoyuan) and seventh (Huangyou) eras (1038-1054 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 開元通寶 (kaiyuan tongbao). Kai Yuan of indeterminate type from 621-907 AD.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 開元通寶 (kaiyuan tongbao). Kai Yuan early type 621-718 AD.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 至和元寶 (zhihe yuanbao). From the Zhihe era (1054-1056 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents Chinese characters corroded beyond legibility. Body of coin is corroded through at several points and exhibits a prominent fracture.
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 元祐通寶 (yuanyou tongbao). From the Yuanyou era (1086-1094 AD) of the reign of Emperor Zhezong (1085-1100 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 貨泉 (huo quan). From the reign of Emperor Wang Mang (9-23 AD). Material missing from obverse upper left quadrant.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 五銖 (wu zhu) almost worn beyond legibility. From the 1st Century BCE to the 6th Century AD.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 五銖 (wu zhu). From the 1st Century BCE to the 6th Century AD.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 順治通寶 (shunzhi tongbao). Reverse presents one Chinese character 河 (he referring to the Kaifeng Henan province mint). From the Shunzhi era (1644-1661 AD) of the Emperor Shizu (1643-1661 AD).
One circular coin. Sqaure central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 康熙通寶 (kangxi tongbao). Reverse presents two worn characters comprising the Manchu yun at left (referring to the Yunnan province mint) and the Chinese 雲 (yun) at right. From the Kangxi era (1662-1722 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shengzu (1661-1722 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 雍正通寶 (yongzheng tongbao). Reverse presents two Manchu characters boo chiowan (Beijing Board of Revenue mint). From the Yongzheng era (1723-1735 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shizong (1722-1735 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 乾隆通寶 (qianlong tongbao). Reverse presents two Manchu characters boo chuwan (referring to the Chengdu Sichuan mint). From the Qianlong era (1736-1796 AD) of the reign of Emperor Gaozong (1735-1796 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 嘉慶通寶 (jiaqing tongbao). Reverse presents two Manchu characters worn beyond legibility. From the Jiaqing era of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1796-1820).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 道光通寶 (daoguang tongbao). From the Daoguang (1821-1850 AD) era of the reign of Emperor Xuanzong (1820-1850 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 咸豐重寶 (xianfeng zhongbao). Reverse presents two worn Chinese characters 當十 (dang shi or value ten) and two worn Manchu characters boo chiowan (Beijing Board of Revenue mint). From the Xianfeng era (1851-1861 AD) of the reign of Emperor Wenzong (1850-1861 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 同治重寶 (tongzhi zhongbao). Reverse presents two worn Chinese characters 當十 (dang shi or value ten) and two worn Manchu characters boo chiowan (Beijing Board of Revenue mint). From the Tongzhi era (1862-1875 AD) of the reign of Emperor Muzong (1861-1875 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 光緒重寶 (guangxu zhongbao). Reverse presents two worn Chinese characters 當十 (dang shi or value ten) and two worn Manchu characters boo yuwan (Beijing Board of Works mint). From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular charm coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 周元通寶 (zhouyuan tongbao). Reverse presents moulded serpentine design of phoenix and dragon. Characters refer to the Xiande era of the reign of Emperor Shi Zong (954-959 AD). However decorated reverse suggests that this is not genuine currency but rather a charm coin.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 貨泉 (huo quan). From the reign of Emperor Wang Mang (9-23 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 天聖元寶 (tiansheng yuanbao). From the Tiansheng era (1023-1032 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse upper outer circumference presents seven Chinese characters 中華民國十年造 (made in the tenth year of the Republic of China or 1921) surrounding a central profile portrait head of Yuan Shikai. Obverse also exhibits purple discolouration. Reverse presents a wreath motif within which are two Chinese characters 一圓 (one yuan).
One circular Spanish coin. Obverse outer circumference reads CAROLUS. IIII. DEI. GRATIA. 1805 (Charles IV by the grace of God 1805) surrounding a central profile portrait head of Charles IV. Reverse outer circumference reads HISPAN. ET IND. REX. M. 8R. T. H (where HISPAN. ET IND. REX. means King of the Spains and the Indies; M. identifies the Mexico City mint; 8R refers to the denomination eight reales; T. and H. are the initials of the official assayers) surrounding a central design comprising a crowned Spanish coat of arms deposed between two pillars. The pillars exhibit banners bearing the latin motto PLVS VLTRA (Plus Ultra or More Beyond).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 洪武通寶 (hongwu tongbao). Reverse presents Chinese character 浙 (zhe) referring to mint in Zhejiang Province. From the Hongwu era of the reign of Emperor Taizu (1368-1398 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse upper outer circumference presents six Chinese characters 中華民國三年 (the third year of the Republic of China or 1914) surrounding a central profile portrait of Yuan Shikai. Reverse upper outer circumference presents six Chinese characters 每十枚當一圓 (ten such coins equal one yuan) surrounding central wreath motif within which are two Chinese characters 一角 (one jiao).
One round, brass charm or amulet coin, depicting two dragons separated by a pillar surmounted by rosettes, one of which has three tendrils. Outer and inner double rim. Circular hole in centre.
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 北洋造 (Beiyang mint) and (bottom) 庫平七錢二分 (denoting weight of the coin as seven mace and 4 canareens). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding four Manchu characters the rightmost of which is identifiable as boo. Reverse outer circumference reads 34th YEAR OF KUANG HSU PEI YANG in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents twelve Chinese characters comprising (top) 廣東省造 (minted in Guangdong province) and (bottom) 庫平一錢四分四釐 (denoting weight of coin as one mace and forty four canareens). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding a group of Manchu characters the rightmost of which is identifiable as boo. Reverse outer circumference reads KWANG-TUNG PROVINCE 1 MACE AND 44 CANAREENS in English-language script surrounding a central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular Russian coin. Obverse presents Imperial double eagle motif. Reverse outer circumference presents wreath motif within which is inscribed 15 КОПѢЕКЪ 1916 (15 Kopeks 1916). From the reign of Tsar Nicholas II (1894-1917 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國 (Republic of China) and (bottom) 開國紀念幣 (coin commemorating birth of the Republic of China) surrounding central profile portrait of head of Sun Yat-Sen. Reverse outer circumference reads MEMENTO BIRTH OF REPUBLIC OF CHINA in English-language script surrounding central wreath motif within which are two Chinese characters 一圓 (one yuan).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents ten Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國 (Republic of China) and bottom 當貳佰文銅元 (value 200 wen bronze coin) surrounding a central wreath and chrysanthemum flower motif. Reverse outer circumference reads HO-NAN 200 CASH surrounding a central crossed flags motif.
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents seven Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters; (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen); (sides) 清江 (Qingjiang Jiangsu province). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding a central floral motif. Reverse outer circumference reads TSING-KIANG TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding a central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents eleven Chinese characters comprising (top) 山東省造 (minted in Shandong province) and bottom 每元當製錢十文 (each coin valued ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding two Manchu characters boo dung (Yantai Shandong province mint). Reverse outer circumference reads SHANG-TUNG TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters bounded by 丙午（the year of bingwu, 1906); (bottom) 當製錢五文 (five cash); (sides) 戶部 (Ministry of Revenue). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 大清銅幣 (Great Qing copper coin) surrounding a fifth Chinese character 鄂 (an abbreviation for Hubei province). Reverse outer circumference presents (top) four Chinese characters 光绪年造 (made during the reign of Emperor Guangxu) and reads (bottom and sides) TAI-CHING-TI-KUO COPPER COIN in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents five legible Chinese characters comprising (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen) and sides 戶部 (Ministry of Revenue). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 大清銅幣 (Great Qing copper coin) surrounding a fifth central Chinese character 汴 (bian). Reverse outer circumference reads TAI-CHING-TI-KUO COPPER COIN in worn English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters bounded by 丙午 （the year of bingwu 1906 AD); (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen); (sides) 戶部 (Ministry of Revenue). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 大清銅幣 (Great Qing copper coin) surrounding a fifth Chinese character 川 (an abbreviation for Sichuan province). Reverse outer circumference presents (top) four Chinese characters 光绪年造 (made during the reign of Emperor Guangxu) and reads (bottom and sides) TAI-CHING-TI-KUO COPPER COIN in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (3) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents seven Chinese characters and four Manchu characters comprising (top) illegible Manchu characters; (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen); (sides) 丁未 (the year of dingwei 1907 AD). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 大清銅幣 (Great Qing copper coin). Reverse outer circumfence presents (top) four Chinese characters 光绪年造 (made during the reign of Emperor Guangxu) and reads (bottom right and right side) COPPER COIN. Additional script on the left outer circumference is worn beyond legibility. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents eight Chinese characters comprising (top) 湖南省造 (minted in Hunan province); (bottom) 銅元 (bronze coin); (sides) 當十 (value ten). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding two Manchu characters the leftmost of which is boo and the rightmost of which is unidentified. Reverse outer circumference reads HU-NAN and TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 湖南省造 (minted in Hunan province); (bottom) 黃銅元 (brass coin); (sides) 當十 (value ten). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding two Manchu characters (nan boo) (Changsha Hunan province mint). Reverse outer circumference reads HU-NAN and TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents six Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國 (Republic of China) and (bottom) 當十 (value ten). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 湖南銅元 (Hunan bronze coin). Reverse outer circumference presents HU-NAN TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding a central motif of an eight-pointed star.
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents seven Chinese and four Manchu characters comprising (top) unidentified Manchu characters; (sides) 北洋 (Beiyang mint); (bottom) 當製錢十文 (value ten wen). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao). Reverse outer circumference reads PEI YANG and TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents eight Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國 (Republic of China) and (bottom) 河南省造 (minted in Henan Province) surrounding a central wreath motif within which are two Chinese characters 十文 (ten wen). Reverse outer circumference reads HO-NAN TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding a central design of crossed flags bordered on either side by botanical motifs. (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents nine Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國 (Republic of China) and (bottom) 當二十銅元 (value twenty wen bronze coin) surrounding a central wreath motif. Reverse outer circumference reads HO-NAN TWENTY CASH in English-language script surrounding a central design of crossed flags bordered on either side by botanical motifs.
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents six Chinese and two Manchu characters comprising (top) 湖北省造 (minted in Hubei province); (bottom) 當十 (value ten); (sides) boo at the left and an unidentified character at the right. Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光緒元寶 (guangxu yuanbao). Reverse outer circumference reads HU-PEH PROVINCE and TEN CASH in English-language script surrounding central dragon motif. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents six Chinese and two Manchu characters comprising (top) 江蘇省造 (minted in Zhejiang province); (bottom) 當十 (value ten); (sides) boo je (Hangzhou Zhejiang province mint). Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 光绪元宝 (guangxu yuanbao) surrounding a central floral motif. Reverse presents double dragon design. From the Guangxu era of the reign of Emperor Dezong (1875-1908 AD). (2) One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents four Chinese characters 大清銅幣 (Great Qing bronze coin) situated equidistantly around a central dragon and botanical motif. Reverse outer circumference presents eleven Chinese characters comprising (top) 宣統三年 (the third year of Xuantong 1911 AD) and (bottom) 百枚換銀幣一圓 (a hundred silver coins can be converted to one yuan). Reverse inner circumference presents two Chinese characters 十文 (ten wen) and an enclosing wreath design. Reverse exhibits prominent parallel scoring. From the Xuantong era (1909-1912 AD) of the reign of emperor Gongzong (1908-1912 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse outer circumference presents indeterminate number of Chinese characters worn beyond legibility. Obverse inner circumference presents four Chinese characters 四川銅幣 (Sichuan bronze coin) surrounding a central floral motif. Reverse upper outer circumference presents six Chinese characters 中華民國元 (the first year of the Republic of China or 1912) surrounding a ring of eighteen circle motifs within which is a single Chinese character 漢 (han).
One circular coin. Obverse presents portrait of head of Sun Yat-Sen. Reverse outer circumference presents eleven Chinese characters comprising (top) 中華民國十八年 (the eighteenth year of the Republic of China or 1929) and (bottom) 廣東省造 (minted in Guangdong Province) surrounding a central wreath motif and two Chinese characters 貳毫 (two hao).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 嘉泰通寶 (jiatai tongbao). From the Jiatai era (1201-1204 AD) of the reign of Emperor Ningzong (1194-1224 AD).
(1) One circular coin. Square central hole. The Obverse presents four Chinese characters 政和通寶 (zhenghe tongbao). From the Zhenghe era (1111-1118 AD) of the reign of Emperor Huizong (1100-1126 AD). (2) One circular coin. Square central hole. The Obverse presents four Chinese characters 政和通寶 (zhenghe tongbao). Material missing from rim. From the Zhenghe era (1111-1118 AD) of the reign of Emperor Huizong (1100-1126 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four corroded Chinese characters 洪武通寶 (hongwu tongbao). Reverse presents two corroded Chinese characters 京十 (jing shi); jing 京 referring to the Nanjing mint and shi 十 denoting the value of ten. From the Hongwu era of the reign of Emperor Taizu (1368-1398 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two Chinese characters denoting coin denomination 半兩 (ban liang). Ban Liang of rimless Western Han Dynasty type from ~175-119 BC.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents two worn Chinese characters denoting coin denomination 半兩 (ban liang). Ban Liang of indeterminate type from ~378-119 BCE.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 咸豐通寶 (xianfeng tongbao). Reverse presents two Manchu characters worn beyond legibility. Coin worn through at one point on its obverse upper right internal circumference. From the Xianfeng era (1851-1861 AD) of the reign of Emperor Wenzong (1850-1861 AD).
One circular Annamese coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 安法元寶 (anfa yuanbao). Reverse is blank. From the Thuận Thiên era of the reign of Emperor Lê Lợi (1428-1433 AD).
One worn circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 乾隆通寶 (qianlong tongbao). Reverse presents two worn Manchu characters boo yun (Yunnan province mint).
One circular Annamese coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 景盛通寶 (jingsheng tongbao). Reverse is blank. From the Cảnh Thịnh era of the reign of Emperor Nguyễn Quang Toản (1792-1802 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 太平通寶 (taiping tongbao). Spans the period between the first (Taipingxingguo) and third (Duangong) eras (976-989 AD) of the reign of Emperor Taizong (976-997 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 乾隆通寶 (qianlong tongbao). Reverse presents two worn Manchu characters boo chiowan (Beijing Board of Revenue mint). From the Qianlong era (1736-1796 AD) of the reign of Emperor Gaozong (1735-1796 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 弘治通寶 (hongzhi tongbao). From the Hongzhi era of the reign of Emperor Xiaozong (1487-1505 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 開元通寶 (kaiyuan tongbao). Kai Yuan early type (621-718 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 洪武通寶 (hongwu tongbao). From the Hongwu era of the reign of Emperor Taizu (1368-1398 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 正隆元寶 (zhenglong yuanbao). From the Zhenglong era (1156-1161 AD) of the reign of Emperor Wanyan Liang (1150-1161 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 紹興元寶 (shaoxing yuanbao). From the Shaoxing era (1131-1162 AD) of the reign of Emperor Gaozong (1127-1162 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 熙寧重寶 (xining zhongbao). From the Xining era (1068-1077 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shenzong (1068-1085 AD).
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 熙寧元寶 (xining yuanbao). From the Xining era (1068-1077 AD) of the reign of Emperor Shenzong (1068-1085 AD).
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 皇宋通寶 (huangsong tongbao). Spans the period between the fourth (Baoyuan) and seventh (Huangyou) eras (1038-1054 AD) of the reign of Emperor Renzong (1022-1063 AD).
One circular coin. Approximately square central hole. Obverse presents four Chinese characters 至道元寶 (zhidao yuanbao). From the Zhidao era (995-997 AD) of the reign of Emperor Taizong (976-997 AD).
One circular coin. Obverse presents two Chinese characters 壹分 (one fen) either side of ancient Chinese spade money motif. Reverse presents eight characters 中華民國二十五年 (the twenty-fifth year of the Republic of China or 1936) defining an arc over a twelve-pointed star motif.
One blade-shaped bronze knife coin. Coin presents moulded ring at one end and an obtuse bend half-way down its length. Of the so-called 'Ming Knife' variety from ~400-220 BCE.
One sword-shaped implement constructed from ~one hundred and seventeen circular square-holed Qing dynasty coins bound together with loops of red yellow and green string. The pommel comprises ~forty seven coins ringing a central spindle. The cross guard and blade comprise ~seventy coins laid flat in overlapping pairs culminating in a metal flange at the blade tip. The coins defining either side of the cross guard are disposed reverse side up (i.e. they present various Manchu mint marks); the coins comprising the blade present their obverses on one side of the sword and their reverses on the other.
One circular coin. Square central hole. Obverse presents four worn Chinese characters 道光通寶 (daoguang tongbao). Reverse presents two worn Manchu characters boo yun (Yunnan province mint). From the Daoguang era (1821-1850 AD) of the reign of emperor Xuanzong (1820-1850 AD).