1 Won Antique ceramics, Aluminium

North Korea's commemorative output in the early 2000s was largely produced for the export collector market rather than domestic circulation — hard currency was the point, not numismatic pride. This aluminium striking of KM#294a exists alongside a brass version of the same type, an unusual pairing that suggests the mint was experimenting with presentation options for foreign distributors. Aluminium at this diameter and weight is a notably thick planchet, which occasionally produces uneven surface texture across the field.