1 Cash - Qianlong Posthumous Tongbao, Aksu, light type, one-stroke A, with circle

Historical Context: Issued from Aksu between 1878-1883, this 1 Cash coin bears the posthumous reign title of Emperor Qianlong (r. 1735-1796). This period falls within the Guangxu Emperor's reign, following Qing reconquest of Xinjiang from Yakub Beg. The deliberate use of Qianlong's name was a powerful political statement, asserting Qing legitimacy and historical dominion over a recently rebel-held territory. It symbolized a return to imperial order and cultural continuity, with the Aksu mint crucial to this economic and symbolic reassertion.

Artistry: The design adheres to the traditional Chinese cash format, featuring "Qianlong Tongbao" (乾隆通寶) on the obverse. While engravers are unknown, the style reflects local craftsmanship, often less refined than imperial mints. The reverse displays "Aksu" (阿克苏) in Manchu script, distinguished by the "one-stroke A" variant. This issue is further characterized by a "light type" fabric and a distinctive circular mark, likely a mint or batch identifier, adding to its numismatic specificity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, this coin measures 25 mm and weighs 3.87 grams, consistent with its "light type" designation. Typical for cast coinage from peripheral mints, strike quality varies. High points for evaluation include clarity of obverse "Qianlong Tongbao" characters and legibility of the Manchu "Aksu" inscription. Collectors should seek a well-defined "one-stroke A" and a clear circular mark. Common technical issues include uneven flans, minor casting voids, or slightly off-center strikes, characteristic of the period and region.