Catalog
| Issuer | Korea (1392-1945) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1679 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 2 Mun (0.002) |
| Currency | Mun (1392-1892) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 5.6 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Thickness | 1 mm |
| Shape | Round with a square hole |
| Technique | Cast |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#925 |
| Obverse description | - Top to bottom: 常平 (Sang pyong) - Right to left: 通寶 (Tong bo) |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Chinese (traditional, regular script) |
| Obverse lettering |
常 寶 通 平 (Translation: 常 (Sang): Always 平 (pyong): Constant 通 (Tong): Circulation 寶 (Bo): Treasure) |
| Reverse description | 平 (Pyong) 二 (I) |
| Reverse script | Chinese (traditional, regular script) |
| Reverse lettering |
平 二 (Translation: 平 (Pyong): Pyong`an Provincial Office 二 (I): Value of 2 mun) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1679) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1830155650 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 2 Mun Pyong coin, issued in 1679, originates from Joseon Dynasty Korea during the reign of King Sukjong (1674-1724). Sukjong's era was marked by efforts to stabilize the economy and expand metallic currency use. The introduction of higher denominations like the 2 Mun was a significant step towards facilitating larger commercial transactions, moving away from a barter system. This issue reflects an ongoing commitment to monetary reform and establishing a more robust national coinage in late 17th century Korea.
Artistry: Specific engravers for Joseon coinage are rarely recorded, with designs following established calligraphic traditions. The aesthetic of this 2 Mun Pyong coin aligns with the prevalent Joseon style, characterized by clear Hanja inscriptions. The obverse typically features characters denoting its value, 'I-mun' (二文), and currency type, 'Pyongtongbo' (平通寶), cast with precision. The design emphasizes legibility and the elegant flow of script, reflecting a functional yet refined numismatic art, influenced by Chinese prototypes but distinctly Korean.
Technical/Grading: As a cast bronze coin, technical quality is assessed by the clarity of the Hanja characters and the integrity of the casting. High-points include sharp, well-defined strokes of the inscriptions and a smooth, even field, free from significant casting flaws like sand holes. A well-preserved example exhibits minimal wear to the raised characters and a uniform patina. The specified dimensions of 5.6 grams and 30 millimeters indicate a substantial module, typical for this denomination, offering good detail retention.