2 Mu Ho, Sun

Issuer Joseon (1392-1897)
Year 1742-1752
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 2 Mun (0.002)
Currency Mun (1392-1892)
Composition Bronze
Weight 8 g
Diameter 30 mm
Thickness
Shape Round with a square hole
Technique Cast
Orientation Medal alignment ↑↑
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#92 , CK#라-482-4日
Obverse description Top to bottom: 常平 = Sang pyong = a Department of Korean Yi Dynasty Right to left: 通寶 = Tong bo = currency
Obverse script Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Obverse lettering  常 寶 通  平
Reverse description Mint mark at top, one of The Thousand Character Classic below *戸 (Ho): Treasury Department
Reverse script Chinese (traditional, regular script)
Reverse lettering  戸  日
(Translation: 戸 (Ho): Treasury Department 日 (Il):Sun)
Edge
Mint
Treasury Department (户曹 (Hojo)),modern-day Seoul, South Korea (1678-1883)
Mintage ND (1742-1752) 戸 - ”マ” of ”通” has claws -
Numisquare ID 3995551690
Additional information

Historical Context: This 2 Mu Ho, Sun coin was issued by the Joseon Dynasty between 1742 and 1752, during the influential reign of King Yeongjo (r. 1724-1776). Yeongjo was a pivotal monarch, known for administrative reforms and economic stabilization. The minting of this denomination highlights the Joseon government's continuous efforts to maintain a functional currency system, essential for trade, taxation, and daily economic life.

Artistry: Specific engraver attribution for Joseon cast coinage is generally absent, reflecting standardized mint production. The coin's artistry lies in its adherence to a distinct calligraphic style. The obverse typically features the denomination "2 Mu" (이무) and a series or mint indicator like "Ho" (호). The reverse commonly displays a character such as "Sun" (선), often denoting the minting bureau. This design prioritizes clear, balanced characters around the central square hole, characteristic of East Asian cash coinage.

Technical/Grading: As a cast bronze coin, its technical quality is assessed by casting fidelity. High-grade examples exhibit sharp, clear characters, well-defined rims, and a precise central square hole, with minimal casting flaws or pitting. Key evaluation points include crisp character strokes and even metal flow. The specified weight of 8 grams and diameter of 30 millimeters are crucial for authentication, indicating standard production within the Joseon monetary system.

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