Coins from Kwangtung (Guangdong) Province in China are a popular area for collectors of Chinese numismatics. Kwangtung was a prominent minting center during both the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China era.
Here are some key aspects of Kwangtung Province coins:
- Early Minting: The Kwangtung Mint, also known as the Canton Mint, opened in 1889 and was the first mint in China to use modern minting techniques. It became the largest mint in the world at the time, producing 2.7 million coins per day.
- Key Coinage Periods:
– 1890-1908 (Guangxu Emperor): This era saw the production of various silver coins in denominations like 7 Mace 2 Candareens (Dollar), 3 Mace 6 Candareens (Half Dollar), 1 Mace 4.4 Candareens (20 cents), and 7.2 Candareens (10 cents), [according to ACSearch] . Copper coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 cash were also produced. The Kwangtung mintages for 10 and 20 cent coins during this period were particularly high.
– 1909-1911 (Xuantong Emperor): Following the passing of Emperor Guangxu, the designs were updated to reflect the new emperor, Xuantong. Only dollar and 20 cent denominations were struck during this period, but despite the lack of precise mintage figures, surviving examples suggest robust production.
– 1912-1949 (Republic of China): After the Xinhai Revolution in 1912, the dragon coinage of the emperors was replaced with new designs. The Kwangtung mint continued to produce coinage under the Republic of China.
- Popular Denominations & Varieties: Kwangtung Province coins were produced in various denominations, including cash coins (like the 1 cash and 10 cash) and silver coins like the 20 cent piece. Many varieties exist, particularly for the high-mintage copper cash and 20 cent silver coins.
- Collecting Kwangtung Coins: Kwangtung coins are popular with collectors, especially the 10 cent and 20 cent silver coins, as they offer an affordable entry point into collecting vintage Chinese silver coinage. Rare issues, like the 1889 Kwangtung Mint silver coins, can be very valuable.
- Where to Find: Kwangtung Province coins can be purchased from various online sources and auctions. Some examples found online include:
– China Kwangtung Province 1 Cash Coin: Available on eBay, priced around $5.25 USD.
– China Province Kwang-tung 20 Cent Silver Coin: Available on eBay, priced around $29.95 USD.
– China Kwang Tung Province 20 Cents (~1920 Year 9): Available on eBay, priced around $12.95 USD.
– China Provincial Kwangtung Province Cash Y#191 (1906-08): Available on Etsy, priced around $17 USD.
In summary, Kwangtung Province coins represent a significant chapter in Chinese numismatic history, offering a variety of denominations and designs spanning the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. Their affordability and historical significance make them attractive to both new and experienced collectors alike.
Where is Kwang Tung Province?
Guangdong , or Kuang-tung conventional Kwangtung, Southernmost mainland province of China. Area: 76,100 sq mi (197,100 sq km). Population: (2020) 126,012,510. Capital: Guangzhou (Canton).