The Dakang reign period (1075–1084) under Emperor Daozong represents one of the more stable phases of Liao coinage, though Liao cash production was never systematized to the degree of the contemporaneous Song dynasty. The Liao operated multiple foundries across their northern territories, and output quality varied considerably between them — accounting for the range of fabric and casting quality seen across surviving Dakang Yuanbao pieces.
Hartill notes this type as relatively available compared to earlier Liao issues, a reflection of increased mint activity under Daozong rather than any accident of survival.
The Dakang reign period (1075–1084) under Emperor Daozong represents one of the more stable phases of Liao coinage, though Liao cash production was never systematized to the degree of the contemporaneous Song dynasty. The Liao operated multiple foundries across their northern territories, and output quality varied considerably between them — accounting for the range of fabric and casting quality seen across surviving Dakang Yuanbao pieces.
Hartill notes this type as relatively available compared to earlier Liao issues, a reflection of increased mint activity under Daozong rather than any accident of survival.