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1 Mun
| Issuer | Kingdom of Joseon |
|---|---|
| Year | 1423-1425 |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Bronze |
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| Diameter | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Cast bronze cash coin featuring a central square perforation framed by four Chinese characters in regular script (kaishu), arranged in the traditional cross-reading order: 朝 (top), 通 (right), 寶 (bottom), 鮮 (left), together reading 朝鮮通寶 (Joseon Tongbo), meaning 'currency of Joseon'. The boldly raised characters are set within a plain inner rim surrounding the square hole, with a raised outer rim encircling the flat field. The surface displays a natural dark brown and green patina consistent with age, and the casting is of typical quality for early Joseon period cash coinage. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | 朝 寶 通 鮮 (Translation: Joseon currency) |
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| Additional information |
The 1 Mun was issued under King Sejong's early reign as part of a renewed push to establish copper coinage as viable everyday currency — an effort that had repeatedly failed under previous Joseon kings, whose subjects stubbornly preferred grain and linen cloth for transactions. This issue fared no better; official copper circulation collapsed again within a few years, and the coins were largely abandoned by the public.
Hartill 25.73 identifies this type by its specific foundry markings, as Joseon cash coins of this period were cast at multiple government foundries with distinguishing reverse characters.