1 Cash - Xiangfu Yuanbao, with dot

Issuer Empire of China
Year 1008-1016
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 1 Cash
Currency Cash (621-1912)
Composition Bronze
Weight 3.45 g
Diameter 25 mm
Thickness
Shape Round with a square hole
Technique Cast
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) Hartill#16.53, FD#884
Obverse description Four Chinese ideograms read clockwise (in Regular script).
Obverse script Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Obverse lettering  祥 寶 符  元
(Translation: Xiang Fu Yuan Bao Xiangfu (3rd era of Zhenzong, 1008-1016) / Original currency)
Reverse description One dot above.
Reverse script
Reverse lettering
Edge Smooth.
Mint Baoquan Mint (宝泉监), Ezhou,modern-day Wuchang District, Hubei, China (997-?; 1074-1102;
1170-1179)
Fengguo Mint (丰国监), Jianzhou,modern-day Jian`ou, Fujian, China (?-1175)
Guangning Mint (广宁监), Jiangzhou,modern-day Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China (999-?; 1170-?)
Shizhou Mint (石州钱监), modern-day
Lishi District, Shanxi, China (1001)
Taiyuan-fu, modern-day Taiyuan,Shanxi, China (979-1039)
Yongfeng Mint (永丰监), Chizhou,modern-day Guichi District, Anhui, China (996)
Yongping Mint (永平监), Raozhou,modern-day Boyang, Jiangxi, China (circa 977-1157)
Mintage ND (1008-1016) - -
Numisquare ID 5629674400
Additional information

Historical Context: This 1 Cash coin, inscribed Xiangfu Yuanbao, was issued by the Empire of China during the Northern Song Dynasty under Emperor Zhenzong (997-1022). The Xiangfu era (1008-1016) marked a period of economic expansion and cultural flourishing. Its widespread minting reflects the Song government's robust monetary policy, facilitating commerce within a burgeoning imperial economy. The "Yuanbao" designation underscored its official status as "original treasure," vital for daily transactions and imperial stability.

Artistry: The Xiangfu Yuanbao's design showcases the refined calligraphic tradition of the Song dynasty. Imperial mints consistently produced coins featuring elegant Regular Script (Kaishu) characters, noted for their balanced composition and clear strokes. The inscription "Xiangfu Yuanbao" reads clockwise from top. This specific variety is distinguished by a small dot, typically on the reverse above the central square hole, a subtle yet important diagnostic feature often indicating a particular mint or production batch.

Technical/Grading: As a cast bronze coin, technical quality is assessed by the sharpness of its characters, the definition of the inner and outer rims, and field smoothness. A strong cast exhibits crisp, well-formed strokes for "Xiangfu Yuanbao," with minimal casting flaws. The central square hole should be cleanly formed. The presence and clarity of the distinguishing dot on the reverse are crucial for confirming this specific Hartill#16.53 variety. Stable patina, free from active bronze disease, is also desirable.

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