100 Cash - Yumin Tongbao, Yi Qian

Historical Context: This 100 Cash "Yumin Tongbao, Yi Qian" coin was issued by Geng Jingzhong, one of the Three Feudatories, during his rebellion against the nascent Qing Dynasty (1674-1676) from his base in Fujian. The legend "Yumin Tongbao" (喻民通寶), meaning "Circulating Treasure to Instruct the People," reflects Geng's attempt to legitimize his rule and garner popular support amidst the conflict. The large denomination "Yi Qian" (壹錢), equivalent to 100 Cash, signifies significant wartime inflation and the urgent need to fund his military operations and administration in the strategically vital coastal province of Fujian.

Artistry: As with most Chinese cash coinage of this era, specific engravers are not individually identifiable. The stylistic school belongs to late Ming/early Qing provincial or rebel minting. The calligraphy on the "Yumin Tongbao" series is generally robust and bold, reflecting a utilitarian yet authoritative aesthetic. While perhaps lacking the imperial refinement of contemporary Qing issues, the characters "喻民通寶" on the obverse and "壹錢" on the reverse are typically well-formed and legible, characteristic of the urgent but determined output of a rebel regime seeking to assert its sovereignty.

Technical/Grading: For this substantial bronze issue (38mm, 17.44g), key grading points include the clarity and definition of the four obverse characters "喻民通寶" and the two reverse characters "壹錢." High points susceptible to wear are the inner strokes of complex characters like "喻" and "寶," and the horizontal strokes of "壹" and "錢." The integrity of the outer rim and the inner square hole, along with the absence of significant casting flaws (common in wartime issues), are crucial. A well-preserved patination that enhances the character definition is also highly desirable for this type.