Kuang-hsu Cash (1 Cash - Machine Struck)
Country of Origin: China - Qing Dynasty (Kwangtung Province)
Year of Issue: 1889-1908
Denomination: 1 Cash (Wen)
Composition: Brass
Brief Description
A circular brass coin with a square center hole, featuring Chinese characters on the obverse and Manchu script on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued during the reign of Emperor Guangxu, these were among the first Chinese cash coins to be machine-struck using Western-style technology rather than the traditional sand-casting method, signifying a shift in Qing Dynasty monetary policy.
Estimated Value
$5-$15 in average circulated condition; $50-$150 for high-grade Mint State examples.
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free flip or archival-safe coin holder. Do not clean or polish, as the natural patina is highly valued by collectors of Chinese numismatics.
Mint Mark
Boo-Guang (Kwangtung Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; millions produced. However, well-preserved machine-struck examples are increasingly sought after.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 2.6-3.0g and 22-23mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Very Fine to Extremely Fine (VF/XF) based on crisp characters and minimal circulation wear visible through the plastic flip.
Obverse (Front)
Four Chinese characters read top-to-bottom and right-to-left: 'Kuang Hsu Tung Pao' (Currency of the Guangxu period).
Reverse (Back)
Two Manchu characters representing the Board of Revenue and the province, in this case, 'Boo-Guang' (Kwangtung).
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition, strike quality, and the presence of original luster significantly influence the price. Machine-struck versions are generally more valuable than cast counterparts of the same era.
Similar Coins
Often confused with traditional cast cash coins of the same reign; machine-struck versions are identified by their uniform edges, consistent thickness, and precise lettering.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for 'soapy' or soft details which suggest a modern replica. Genuine machine-struck coins should have sharp, crisp character edges and no casting bubbles.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Variations in the size of the central square hole and 'large' vs 'small' character varieties exist.
Created At: 2026-06-03T22:25:41.732492