1 Cash - Tonghe Yuanbao

Historical Context: The Tonghe Yuanbao 1 Cash coin was issued by the Liao dynasty during Emperor Shengzong's Tonghe era (983-1011). This period marked a zenith of Liao power and cultural consolidation, preceding the Treaty of Chanyuan. The Khitan-led empire adopted Chinese-style coinage, reflecting engagement with Han culture. This bronze issue (4.06g, 24mm) served as a fundamental monetary unit, facilitating trade across their vast domain and symbolizing dynastic stability.

Artistry: The Tonghe Yuanbao reflects characteristic Liao numismatic style. Engravers remain anonymous, but the obverse inscription's calligraphy—"Tonghe Yuanbao" (top-bottom, right-left)—is robust and forceful. It exhibits a distinctive vigor, often less delicate than contemporary Northern Song issues, yet possessing a unique Khitan strength in its brushwork. Characters are typically well-formed, adhering to standard Chinese scripts but with a broader, more substantial presentation, indicative of the era's prevalent calligraphic school. No individual artist signatures are known.

Technical/Grading: Critical points for grading include sharpness and clarity of the four characters, especially intricate radicals of "Tong" (統) and "He" (和), often weak from casting imperfections. Inner and outer rim integrity is paramount; strong, well-defined rims without significant voids or breaks are highly desirable. Planchet quality (casting flaws, pits, unevenness) significantly impacts grade. A well-centered strike, uniform thickness, and an attractive, stable patina free from active corrosion are crucial for higher-grade examples of this Hartill#18.6 type.