Finding Rare Chinese Cash Coins in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

The Thrill of the Hunt

You don’t always need a dealer to find rare treasures. Sometimes, the most exciting discoveries happen when you’re simply searching through circulation, bulk lots, or estate sales. This is the story of three Chinese cash coins that appeared in a neighbor’s collection, and how careful observation and research led to their identification.

Historical Significance of Chinese Cash Coins

Chinese cash coins represent one of the world’s longest-running monetary traditions, spanning over two thousand years from the Qin dynasty through the early 20th century. These distinctive round coins with square holes were cast rather than struck, making each piece a unique artifact of ancient minting techniques. The three coins in question date from the Qing dynasty period (1644-1912), representing emperors Qianlong (1736-1795), Daoguang (1820-1850), and what appears to be a Japanese Kanei coin from the same era.

Identifying Key Markers

When examining potential finds like these, several key features demand attention:

1. The Qianlong Emperor Coin

The top coin was quickly identified as a China Chien-lung (Qianlong) piece from 1736-95, catalog number KM391. Key identifying features include:

• Clear reign marks indicating the Qianlong period
• Board of Works mint mark
• Medal alignment orientation
• Characteristic Qing dynasty calligraphy style

2. The Japanese Kanei Coin

The middle coin initially caused confusion, with one collector noting it “says Korea to me.” However, further research revealed it to be a Japanese Kanei coin. Japanese cash coins from this period share similar characteristics with Chinese ones but have distinct differences in script and design elements. The reference provided (https://roberts.faculty.history.ucsb.edu/coins/Kaneibasics.html) proved invaluable for proper identification.

3. The Daoguang Emperor Coin

The bottom coin, though difficult to see clearly in the provided images, was identified as belonging to the Daoguang emperor (1820-1850). Key features include:

• Distinctive Daoguang reign marks
• Board of Works mint identification
• Worn condition suggesting extensive circulation

Research Resources for Cherry Pickers

Successful identification requires reliable reference materials. In this case, several resources proved valuable:

The collector initially consulted Krause catalogues but found no matches, highlighting the importance of specialized references for Chinese coinage.

The website https://www.calgarycoin.com/reference/china/china8.htm#ching provided crucial information for Chinese cash coins, while the UCSB reference helped identify the Japanese piece. This demonstrates the value of having multiple reference sources when hunting through bulk lots.

Value Guide and Collectibility

While specific values weren’t discussed in the original thread, several factors affect the collectibility and potential value of these coins:

Condition Factors

The condition of each coin significantly impacts its value. The Daoguang coin was noted as “a little hard to see,” suggesting wear that could affect its market value. However, even worn examples of these historical pieces hold collector interest.

Rarity and Historical Context

Qianlong period coins are generally more common than Daoguang pieces, but specific mint marks and varieties can command premium prices. The Board of Works mint designation adds historical interest, as this was one of the primary minting authorities during the Qing dynasty.

Cross-Cultural Appeal

The presence of a Japanese Kanei coin in the group adds diversity and potential value to the collection. Japanese cash coins, while related to Chinese designs, have their own collector base and historical significance.

Tips for Successful Roll Hunting

This case study offers several valuable lessons for collectors:

1. Always examine coins carefully, even if they appear common at first glance
2. Don’t rely on a single reference source – cross-reference when possible
3. Be aware that similar-looking coins from different countries can appear in mixed lots
4. Consider joining collector forums for quick identification help
5. Document your findings with clear photographs for future reference

Conclusion

The discovery of these three coins demonstrates the ongoing potential for finding valuable pieces in unexpected places. Whether through circulation finds, bulk lots, or estate sales, patient examination and proper research can yield significant discoveries. The combination of Chinese and Japanese cash coins in this group also reminds us that historical artifacts often cross cultural boundaries, creating fascinating collecting opportunities for those willing to look beyond national classifications.

For collectors interested in pursuing similar finds, the key is developing a systematic approach to examination and building a reliable reference library. With practice and persistence, the next great discovery might be hiding in plain sight, waiting for an observant collector to recognize its true value.

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