5 Zhu With right rim, 'White coin' type

The "white coin" designation refers to the lead-tin enrichment of the alloy, which gives the surface a noticeably paler cast compared to standard bronze issues. This type was produced during the Sui dynasty under Emperor Wen, who in 581 unified China after nearly four centuries of fragmentation following the collapse of the Western Jin. His monetary reforms attempted to standardize coinage across a reunified empire, but the presence of high-lead compositions throughout this period reflects ongoing difficulties sourcing consistent metal — and the persistent reality of private casting that authorities never fully suppressed.