Qi knife Qi Fa Hua

The "Qi Fa Hua" inscription on these large knife coins has been interpreted as a place name, a mint designation, or a monetary authority mark — numismatists have not reached consensus, and the debate remains active. What is certain is that the State of Qi maintained one of the most sophisticated bronze knife currency systems in the Warring States period, with knife money circulating as a genuine medium of exchange rather than a ceremonial object. Qi's coastal position and control of salt revenues made it among the wealthiest of the seven major states.

Production likely spanned multiple generations of craftsmen working from clay piece-molds, which accounts for the considerable variation in weight and casting quality seen across the type.