1 Cash - Qianheng Zhongbao, lead

Historical Context: This 1 Cash coin, inscribed Qianheng Zhongbao, was issued by the Southern Han Kingdom during the tumultuous Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (907-960 CE) in China. Struck between 917 and 924 CE, it falls within the reign of Emperor Gaozu (Liu Yan). The use of lead as the primary coinage metal is highly significant, reflecting the Southern Han's localized economy, scarcity of copper resources, and the widespread economic instability characteristic of this fragmented era. These lead issues primarily facilitated local commerce within the kingdom.

Artistry: The design of this Qianheng Zhongbao coin adheres to the traditional Chinese cash coinage format, featuring four characters arranged around a central square hole. The inscription "Qianheng Zhongbao" (乾亨重寶), meaning "Qianheng Heavy Treasure," is rendered in a clear, though often somewhat crude, regular script (kaishu). While specific engravers are unknown, the stylistic school reflects regional casting practices. The inherent softness of lead often resulted in less defined details compared to contemporary bronze issues, with characters appearing flatter and less crisp.

Technical/Grading: Crafted from lead, this 26 mm, 5.02 gram coin presents unique challenges for preservation and grading. Lead is highly susceptible to corrosion, surface pitting, and mechanical damage, meaning high-grade examples are exceedingly rare. Typical strike qualities for these cast coins include variable character definition, often shallow or incomplete, and occasional casting flaws. Collectors should seek stable, undisturbed dark grey patinas, as active corrosion significantly diminishes value. High-points of the characters are often the first to show wear or damage.