1 Cash - Datang Tongbao

Historical Context: This 1 Cash Datang Tongbao, issued by the Southern Tang Kingdom between 959 and 961, represents a pivotal numismatic artifact from China's tumultuous Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Struck under Emperor Li Jing (Yuanzong), its inscription "Datang" (Great Tang) reflects the kingdom's aspiration to legitimize its rule by evoking the prestigious Tang Dynasty, positioning itself as a cultural and political successor amidst widespread fragmentation. This coinage played a crucial role in regional commerce and asserted sovereign authority during an era of competing states, highlighting the Southern Tang's enduring cultural influence.

Artistry: The coin's design adheres to the established aesthetic principles of traditional Chinese cash coinage, featuring a round planchet with a central square hole. While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the calligraphic style employed is Kaishu (Regular Script), known for its legibility and balanced strokes. The obverse prominently displays the inscription "Datang Tongbao" (大唐通寶), read top-bottom-right-left. The characters are expertly rendered, showcasing a refined and harmonious composition indicative of the Southern Tang court's high artistic standards, with the reverse typically left plain.

Technical/Grading: Cast in bronze, this coin measures 24 mm in diameter and weighs 3.38 grams, consistent with contemporary cash issues. Production utilized sand-casting techniques, leading to inherent variations in strike quality. Well-preserved examples exhibit sharply defined characters, clear inner and outer rims, and a precisely punched central square hole. Key high-points for evaluation include the clarity of the radical strokes and the distinctness of the rim details. Typical examples may show minor casting flaws or unevenness, with attractive patinas ranging from earthy browns to verdant greens.