10 Yuan Support the Republic, without '1'
| Issuer | Yunnan Province |
|---|---|
| Year | 1919 |
| Type | Commemorative circulation coin |
| Value | 10 Yuan |
| Currency | Yuan (1908-1949) |
| Composition | Gold (.750) |
| Weight | 8.50 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Y#482.1 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Tang Jiyao partially facing left with Chinese ideograms above. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Chinese |
| Obverse lettering |
唐長軍撫院務軍 (Translation: Military Commander Tang) |
| Reverse description | Crossed flags with star above and number below, all surrounded by Chinese ideograms. |
| Reverse script | Chinese |
| Reverse lettering |
幣金念紀和共護擁 圓拾幣銀當 (Translation: Support the Republic commemorative gold coin Worth 10 silver Yuan currency) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1919) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1419085500 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This 1919 10 Yuan gold coin from Yunnan Province originates during China's Warlord Era. Under warlord Tang Jiyao, Yunnan functioned as a semi-independent state challenging central authority. The "Support the Republic" (護國擁戴) inscription was a complex political statement, asserting republican ideals while vying for regional power. Issuing gold coinage highlighted Yunnan's economic autonomy and capacity for high-value currency, reflecting its influence amidst national fragmentation.
Artistry: Engraver is unattributed. Stylistically, it represents an early Republican Chinese aesthetic, blending traditional iconography with modern minting. The obverse features the "Support the Republic" legend, denomination, and date. The reverse prominently displays a detailed coiled dragon, an ancient symbol of prosperity, recontextualized for a republican framework. This design reflects a transitional period, adapting traditional motifs to a new political order.
Technical/Grading: Strike quality varies, though these gold pieces are well-executed. Key high-points for wear include the dragon's head, scales, claws, and obverse characters/wreath details. A defining characteristic of Y#482.1 is the consistent absence or extreme faintness of the '壹' (one) character from the '壹拾圓' (ten yuan) denomination, hence the 'without '1'' designation. This anomaly stems from a die flaw or insufficient striking pressure, making it a crucial diagnostic.