Obverse

Reverse

1 Cash (Wen)

Qianlong Tongbao Cash Coin

China, Qing Dynasty · 1735-1796

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

Country: China, Qing Dynasty
Year: 1735-1796
Denomination: 1 Cash (Wen)
Metal: Brass (typically copper, zinc, and lead)
Grade: Very Fine (VF); showing moderate wear but clear characters and a stable patina.

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Overview

A circular cast 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 the Qianlong Emperor, this period marked a height of Qing power and prosperity. These coins were used in daily commerce across the empire.

Obverse (front)

Four Chinese characters read top-to-bottom, right-to-left: Qian Long Tong Bao (Currency of the Qianlong period).

Reverse (back)

Two Manchu characters; left: 'Boo' (Source), right: 'Chiowan' (Board of Revenue Mint).

Estimated value

$1-$10 for common varieties; rare mints or mother coins can exceed $100.

What drives this coin's value

Mint location, weight/size (large 'large' cash are better), and calligraphy style variants.

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF); showing moderate wear but clear characters and a stable patina.

Mintage & rarity

Common; billions were cast, though specific calligraphy variants can be scarce.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Look for crisp character edges and natural wear. Modern fakes often have 'sand-blasted' textures or chemical patinas that look powdery/blue.

Notable varieties & errors

Shan-lung (Mountain-Qian) variants and coins with specific dots/crescents on the reverse.

Similar coins

Coins of other Qing emperors like Kangxi or Jiaqing; they are distinguished by the top and bottom characters on the obverse.

Care & preservation

Store in a PVC-free holder. Do not attempt to scrub off the patina, as it protects the metal and confirms age.

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Overview

Historical significance

Obverse (front)

Reverse (back)

Estimated value

What drives this coin's value

Grade assessment

Mintage & rarity

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Notable varieties & errors

Similar coins

Care & preservation

Other china, qing dynasty coins

Learn about Qianlong Tongbao Cash Coin in the encyclopedia