10 Cash - Qianyuan Zhongbao, with cloud

発行体 Empire of China
年号 758-759
種類 Standard circulation coin
額面 10 Cash
通貨 Cash (621-1912)
材質 Bronze
重量 8.15 g
直径 30 mm
厚さ
形状 Round with a square hole
製造技法 Cast
向き Medal alignment ↑↑
彫刻師
流通終了年
参考文献 Hartill#14.104
表面の説明 Four Chinese ideograms read top to bottom, right to left.
表面の文字体系 Chinese (traditional, clerical script)
表面の銘文  乾 重 寶  元
(Translation: Qian Yuan Zhong Bao Qianyuan (2nd era of Suzong, 758-760) / Heavy currency)
裏面の説明 One auspicious cloud above.
裏面の文字体系
裏面の銘文
Smooth.
鋳造所
鋳造数 ND (758-759) - -
Numisquare ID 2474761890
追加情報

Historical Context:The Qianyuan Zhongbao 10 Cash coin, issued 758-759, dates to Emperor Suzong's Qianyuan era, following the An Lushan Rebellion. This conflict profoundly destabilized the Tang economy. The large denomination "heavy treasure" (Zhongbao) was an imperial strategy to finance military efforts, address copper shortages, and project stability amidst severe inflation. It is a tangible numismatic testament to the empire's struggle for recovery.

Artistry:The coin's artistry reflects Tang Dynasty imperial numismatic tradition. The obverse displays "Qianyuan Zhongbao" (乾元重寶) in strong, balanced calligraphy, characteristic of official mints. Its most distinctive design is the reverse's stylized "cloud" motif, above the central square hole. This auspicious cloud (祥雲) uniquely identifies this issue (Hartill#14.104), likely a mint mark or symbolizing imperial blessings during national upheaval.

Technical/Grading:As a cast bronze coin, the Qianyuan Zhongbao's technical quality is judged by casting sharpness. Key evaluation points include crisp obverse calligraphy and, critically, the definition of the distinctive reverse cloud motif. Desirable examples exhibit well-formed characters, a smooth field free from significant casting flaws like sand pits, and a complete, even rim. Its substantial 30mm diameter and 8.15g weight indicate its intended 10 Cash value.

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