Description: This is a stunning Qin Dynasty (221–206 BC) Ban Liang Type 1 coin detailing sharp edges, high-relief characters, indicative of minimal circulation, and a nearly-full round circumference, with mineral deposits on the bronze. It is an ancient Chinese coin that is sure to be a great addition to any collection. The coin features a beautiful design and is made of bronze, with a denomination of 1/2 Liang. This coin is circulated and has a grade of Very Fine (VF), as certified by the Asian Coin Certification Authority (ACCA). The KM Number for this coin is 40065, and it was minted in China during the Qin Dynasty period. With its rich history and cultural significance, this excellent-detailed coin is a must-have for any serious collector or enthusiast. This listing is for 1 Ban Liang (半兩) bronze coin from the Qin Dynasty [221 BC–206 BC]. First minted as early as 378 BC, the Ban Liang was the first unified currency of the Chinese empire. It was introduced by the "First Sovereign Emperor" Qin Shihuangdi (Qin Shi Huang) after the unification of the country around 210 BC. These coins continued to be used and even new ones were minted after the demise of the Qin dynasty, until they were replaced by Wu Zhu cash coins around 118 BC during the Han dynasty. The Ban Liang means "half tael", tael being a historical weight measure used in the Far East. The Qin Dynasty is known for uniting China after the Warring States period and establishing a highly centralized monarchy. Qin Shihuangdi (Shi Huangdi) presided over a complex bureaucracy, implemented standardized writing systems, weight systems, measurement systems, and monetary systems. Before the Ban Liang coin was introduced, a variety of coins were used in China, usually in the form of blades (knife or spade money) or other implements. The standardization of currency with this round coinage was part of a broader plan to unify weights, measures or axle width during the Qin empire. Ban Liang coins continued to be used under the Western Han dynasty until they were finally replaced by the Wu Zhu coins in 118 BCE. Details:Issuer: China (ancient)Emperor: Qin dynasty › Shi Huang (221 BC - 210 BC)Type: Standard circulation coinYears: 221 BC - 210 BCValue: ½ LiangCurrency: Liang (300-118 BC)Composition: BronzeWeight (gram): 11.77 gDiameter (Ø): 34.66 x 34.87 mmShape: Round with a square holeOrientation: Medal alignment ↑↑Demonetized: YesNumber: N#40065References: Hartill# 7.6, FD# 385, Schjoth# 79, Gratzer 3# 12.3Obverse:Two Chinese ideograms read right to left.Script: ChineseLettering: 两半 [Liang] [B an]Translation: Ban Liang Half ounceReverse:Blank (uniface).Edge:Smooth Historical Significance:The Qin dynasty is one of the best-known periods in Chinese history in the West because of the 1974 discovery of thousands of life-size terracotta warriors. They were part of the vast army guarding the tomb of Qin Shihuangdi.Although the Great Wall of China was built over many centuries, the wall was begun during the Qin dynasty in the 3rd century BCE, and additions were made during subsequent dynasties. The last work was completed during the Ming dynasty (1368–1644).The people's lives under the Qin became harsh, narrow, and more uncertain than they had been during the Warring States Period because government officials could take anyone they wanted to work on the emperor's projects, no matter their social class or occupation.During the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), Qin Shihuangdi (Shi Huangti) banned religion and burned philosophical and religious works. Legalism became the official philosophy of the Qin government and the people were subject to harsh penalties for breaking even minor laws.The Qin Dynasty and Polytheism: Religion was syncretic, which means that it combined or synthesized many different traditions. While educated scholars might practice Taoism or Confucianism, the average person would have worshipped shen, or spirits.CommentsFive main types exist: Type 1: Weight around 8 grams.Type 2: Weight around 5 grams.Type 3: Weight less than 2 grams.Type 4: Weight less than (or around) 3 grams; without rims.Type 5: Weight less than (or around) 3 grams; with rims.
Price: 750 USD
Location: Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
End Time: 2024-11-30T16:39:47.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Circulated/Uncirculated: Circulated
Denomination: 1/2 Liang
Historical Period: Empire (up to 1948)
Composition: Bronze
Year: 336-221 BC
Certification Number: A1049324
Color: Bronze
Grade: VF
KM Number: 40065
Country/Region of Manufacture: China
Variety: Type 1
Certification: Asian Coin Certification Authority (ACCA)