Kuang-hsu Cash (1 Cash - Machine Struck)

China - Qing Dynasty (Kwangtung Province) · 1889-1908

A circular brass coin with a square center hole, featuring Chinese characters on the obverse and Manchu script on the reverse.

Country: China - Qing Dynasty (Kwangtung Province)
Year: 1889-1908
Denomination: 1 Cash (Wen)
Metal: Brass

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 June 3, 2026More china - qing dynasty (kwangtung province) coins →

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Overview

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.

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).

Estimated value

$5-$15 in average circulated condition; $50-$150 for high-grade Mint State examples.

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.

Grade assessment

Very Fine to Extremely Fine (VF/XF) based on crisp characters and minimal circulation wear visible through the plastic flip.

Mintage & rarity

Common; millions produced. However, well-preserved machine-struck examples are increasingly sought after.

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.

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.

Care & preservation

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.