Fengtien 1 Tael (Kuiping Tael) Pattern Dollar

China (Fengtien Province) · 1903 (Year 29 of Guangxu)

A rare Chinese silver pattern coin featuring two dragons surrounding Chinese characters on one side and stylized dragons framing central characters on the other.

Country: China (Fengtien Province)
Year: 1903 (Year 29 of Guangxu)
Denomination: 1 Tael (Yi Liang)
Metal: Silver (approx. .900 fineness)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified August 23, 2026More china (fengtien province) coins →

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Overview

A rare Chinese silver pattern coin featuring two dragons surrounding Chinese characters on one side and stylized dragons framing central characters on the other.

Historical significance

Struck during the late Qing Dynasty at the Fengtien Mint, this 1 Tael coin is part of the experimental 'Kuiping Tael' series intended to standardize Chinese currency weight, though most were never fully circulated and remain exceedingly rare collector items today.

Obverse (front)

Features two opposing dragons flanking a central pearl at the top, with Chinese characters reading 'Yi Liang' (One Tael) in the center, and a stylized cloud/wave pattern at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

Features central Chinese characters reading 'Guang Xu Yin Bi' (Guangxu Silver Coin) enclosed by an inner circle, surrounded by two stylized dragons and cyclical date characters (Ding Wei / Provincial characters) in the outer ring.

Estimated value

$500-$2,000+ for authentic pieces, though many modern fantasies and counterfeits exist which are worth only melt or novelty value.

What drives this coin's value

Authenticity is the primary value factor due to the high volume of modern fantasy counterfeits; original mint state condition and provenance drastically increase value.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated to Mint State appearance, though modern replicas often exhibit artificial aging or matte finishes.

Mintage & rarity

Extremely rare; genuine original striking is exceptionally scarce (often considered a pattern or trial piece).

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight, dimensions, and magnetic properties closely. Many fantasy pieces feature incorrect details, modern cast bubbles, or unnatural grey coloration. Professional authentication (NGC or PCGS) is strongly recommended.

Notable varieties & errors

Various die trials, pattern differences in dragon scales, and varying placement of central characters.

Similar coins

Other Chinese provincial dragon dollars and taels from the late Qing Dynasty, such as those from Kirin, Hupei, or Peiyang provinces.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges only with clean cotton gloves, avoid cleaning or dipping to preserve original surfaces, and store in an inert, PVC-free holder in a stable, low-humidity environment.