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1 Cash - Tiansheng Yuanbao, Regular script
| Issuer | Western Xia Empire |
|---|---|
| Year | 1149-1169 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
| Shape | Log in to see details |
| Technique | Cast |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | Plain reverse with a central square perforation framed by a raised inner rim and a raised outer rim. The broad intervening field is entirely blank and unadorned, displaying a smooth to slightly granular cast surface consistent with the standard reverse treatment of Western Xia cash coinage. The surface shows an even dark brown patina with scattered patches of green oxidation, typical of buried bronze from this period. |
| Reverse script | Log in to see details |
| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
The Western Xia — the Tangut state occupying the Ordos and Gansu corridor — maintained its own coinage tradition largely independent of Song Chinese influence, though the Tiansheng Yuanbao series shows clear calligraphic borrowings from contemporary Song cash. Tiansheng was the reign title of Renzong, the longest-reigning Western Xia emperor, whose 54-year rule accounts for much of the dynasty's numismatic output. The state was conducting a three-way balancing act between Song, Jin, and later the rising Mongol threat throughout this period.
Hartill notes that Western Xia bronzes are frequently found in poor alloy, contributing to the surface granularity common across the type.