1 Cash - Datang Tongbao

Historical Context: The 1 Cash Datang Tongbao, issued by the Southern Tang Kingdom (959-961 AD), originates from Emperor Yuanzong, Li Jing's reign. This period, within the tumultuous Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms era, saw China fragmented post-Tang Dynasty. The Southern Tang, a culturally rich kingdom, asserted its legitimacy and connection to the glorious Tang past through this coinage, inscribing "Great Tang Circulating Treasure." Li Jing's reign, despite territorial pressures, saw significant cultural and artistic flourishing.

Artistry: While specific engravers are typically unrecorded for Chinese coinage of this period, the Datang Tongbao's calligraphy is its defining artistic feature. The elegant regular script (kai shu) is often attributed to Emperor Li Jing himself, a celebrated poet and calligrapher, or designed under his direct imperial influence. This personal connection elevates the coin, reflecting the refined aesthetic of the Southern Tang court. The four characters "Da Tang Tong Bao" are classically arranged top-bottom, right-left, within a delicate outer rim; the reverse is typically plain.

Technical/Grading: This bronze coin, 24 mm and 3.38 grams, was produced via casting, standard for Chinese coinage of the era. High-quality examples exhibit sharp, well-defined characters and clear inner/outer rims. Common technical attributes include minor casting flaws, such as slight irregularities on the flan or rim. Exceptional specimens feature a smooth, even patina, free from significant pitting or corrosion, retaining full detail in character strokes, indicative of a strong original cast and careful preservation.