35 Yuan Year of the Child, Piedfort

Historical Context: Issued by the People's Republic of China in 1979, this 35 Yuan piedfort coin commemorates the International Year of the Child (IYC), a United Nations global initiative. This period, under Deng Xiaoping's "reform and opening up," marked China's pivotal re-engagement with the global community. The coin's focus on an international humanitarian theme signaled a significant shift from prior isolation, reflecting China's embrace of more outward-looking and cooperative international policies.

Artistry: Specific engraver attribution for early PRC issues is often not detailed. The obverse features the iconic National Emblem of the People's Republic of China, depicting Tiananmen Gate, a symbol of national pride. The reverse masterfully captures the International Year of the Child's spirit, illustrating a joyful scene of children at play. This artistic rendition blends traditional Chinese aesthetic elements with a universally appealing theme of hope and innocence, rendered with idealized realism.

Technical/Grading: As a piedfort issue, this coin is struck on a thicker planchet, often yielding superior strike depth and relief. Key areas for full detail include the intricate architectural elements of Tiananmen Gate on the obverse, especially the roof tiles. On the reverse, critical high-points are the delicate facial features and hair of the children, and subtle folds in their clothing. Collectors should seek examples with sharp, complete strikes and pristine fields, as the .800 silver composition generally allowed for excellent detail.