1 Cash - Khang Hi Thông Bảo Unofficial coin

Historical Context: This 'Khang Hi Thông Bảo' unofficial coin from the Empire of Vietnam signifies a crucial period in Vietnamese numismatic history, concurrent with Qing Emperor Kangxi's reign (1661-1722). Despite bearing a Chinese imperial inscription, its Vietnamese 'unofficial' origin underscores economic autonomy and reliance on local coinage. Such issues, often imitating popular foreign types, addressed currency shortages and facilitated commerce during an era when Vietnam, nominally under the Lê dynasty, saw real power held by the Trịnh and Nguyễn lords.

Artistry: The engraver of this unofficial issue is anonymous, typical for decentralized productions. Stylistically, the coin follows the aesthetic of late Ming/early Qing Chinese cash coinage, featuring the 'Khang Hi Thông Bảo' legend in traditional Chinese script on the obverse. Vietnamese unofficial issues often display a distinct, sometimes cruder, hand in their calligraphy and execution, differentiating them from official Chinese counterparts. The reverse is typically plain, reflecting a pragmatic focus on functionality over elaborate design.

Technical/Grading: Cast in brass, common for cash coinage, this 21.5mm coin's technical qualities are variable. High-points, especially raised character elements, may exhibit less definition than official issues due to worn molds or hurried production. Collectors should anticipate common casting flaws like porosity, uneven planchet surfaces, and off-center strikes. Overall strike quality is often inconsistent, from moderately sharp to weak, reflecting decentralized and less controlled manufacturing processes of unofficial coinage.