Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
April 2021 Hong Kong Auction 5-8 Apr 2021
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(t) CHINA. Kwangtung. Brass Cash Pattern, ND (ca. 1890-1908). PCGS SPECIMEN-62 Gold Shield.
CCC-779; Duan-2235. This interesting and perplexing issue is certain to grab the attention of the specialist looking to advance their collection by acquiring rare and unusual numismatics treasures. The obverse features the standard design with the formula for the Emperor's name while the reverse is what really sets it apart from other issues. The Manchu script on the reverse is somewhat barbarous done by an inexperienced and unfamiliar hand that succeeded in engraving a nonsensical version of "Guwang". Two dots are also noticed on the reverse, a feature not normally associated with square hole Cash. The surfaces are quite lovely displaying attractive mottled light golden brown brassy tone with areas of richer coloration and a slight iridescent sheen that pops out when tilted in the light offering much reflectivity. A neat and seldom encountered issue destined for an advanced collection of Chinese numismatics. Although displaying the same grade on the holder as the one we sold in October (SBP HK, lot 42297), the present example is much more pleasing to the eye.
CCC-779; Duan-2235. This interesting and perplexing issue is certain to grab the attention of the specialist looking to advance their collection by acquiring rare and unusual numismatics treasures. The obverse features the standard design with the formula for the Emperor's name while the reverse is what really sets it apart from other issues. The Manchu script on the reverse is somewhat barbarous done by an inexperienced and unfamiliar hand that succeeded in engraving a nonsensical version of "Guwang". Two dots are also noticed on the reverse, a feature not normally associated with square hole Cash. The surfaces are quite lovely displaying attractive mottled light golden brown brassy tone with areas of richer coloration and a slight iridescent sheen that pops out when tilted in the light offering much reflectivity. A neat and seldom encountered issue destined for an advanced collection of Chinese numismatics. Although displaying the same grade on the holder as the one we sold in October (SBP HK, lot 42297), the present example is much more pleasing to the eye.
An interesting pattern whose exact origin is unknown. It was certainly not manufactured in China but most likely produced in Europe. The fact that this elusive issue is not listed in many of the reference material is suggestive of limited production. Though stylistically a much different product than the Paris mint patterns (CCC-777), where the characters are larger and more bubbly, this issue also differs from the patterns produced by the Heaton mint in Birmingham (first Kwangtung dragon issues). Due to the lack of contemporary documentation, there is no solid evidence as to the place of manufacture.
Estimate: $4000.00- $6000.00