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5 Zhu - Wen Heavy type
| Issuer | Northern dynasties |
|---|---|
| Year | 540 |
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| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Cash (495-579) |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Diameter | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | Plain cast reverse centered on a square central perforation, bordered by a raised inner square rim and a raised outer circular rim. The field between the rims is flat and entirely without legend or ornament, displaying the characteristic unadorned reverse typical of Northern Dynasties Wu Zhu cash coinage. The surface shows extensive green and brown patination with areas of cuprite and verdigris, evidence of long-term burial corrosion. The casting is relatively even, with minor surface porosity visible across the field. No mint marks or additional devices are present. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
The "Heavy type" designation here is functional, not honorific — Northern Qi's monetary administration periodically adjusted flan weights upward in response to chronic debasement by competing workshops, both official and illicit. By the mid-sixth century, the fractured political geography of northern China meant multiple regimes were striking nominally identical 5 Zhu coins to incompatible standards, and heavier state issues were one lever used to assert fiscal credibility.
Hartill 10.24 places this type within the Eastern Wei transitional period before Northern Qi formally consolidated power in 550.