20 Cash Urumchi, type 1

Historical Context: The 20 Cash Urumchi, type 1, issued by Sinkiang Province in 1929-1930, originates from China's Warlord Era. Governor Jin Shuren maintained effective control, independent of central government. This substantial 20 Cash denomination underscored Sinkiang's need for a stable, localized currency to facilitate commerce in its remote, diverse territories. Coinage from Urumchi, the capital, was crucial for regional economic stability amidst national turmoil.

Artistry: Specific engraver details for this provincial issue are unrecorded. The coin's utilitarian style blends traditional Chinese numismatic elements with practical design. The obverse typically features a central rosette or flower, encircled by Chinese characters denoting "Sinkiang Province," "20 Cash," and the cyclical year. The reverse mirrors this information in Arabic script, reflecting the region's Uyghur population. Execution is often rustic, characteristic of a provincial mint prioritizing clear legibility for local trade.

Technical/Grading: As a large 39mm copper coin, the 20 Cash Urumchi presents distinct grading characteristics. High-points prone to wear include the central rosette's petals, raised Chinese and Arabic characters, and the outer rim. Strike quality is highly variable; uneven strikes, weak areas (especially on fine character details), and occasional planchet imperfections are common. Well-struck examples, showing full detail on all inscriptions and the central motif with an even strike, are premium and rare.