China
Qing Dynasty. Yunnan Sanchuo Bianding? ("Three-Stamp Slab") Sycee of 5 Taels ND (c. 19th Century) Choice AU, cf. Opitz-pg. 330 (for type), Cribb-Unl. (cf. Class LXVIII), Tai, Sycee Online, Ybr/6 (different stamps), Tang-1007-1008 (different stamps). 45x36mm. 181.57gm. Each of the three stamps reads: "Zhou Shun Xing" (likely a smith's name). A remarkably fine specimen that certainly stands at the upper end of technical preservation for the sycee we have offered, the deeply impressed stamps presenting razor-sharp features and virtually uncirculated quality. Though the type would appear to fall under Cribb's Class LXVIII based on its shape, it differs both from the sub-groups he describes in that it names the county of origin, and has the central stamp transposed horizontally over the other two. For reference, we offered a somewhat similar piece as part of our sale of the Charles Opitz Collection in December 2019, which brought $5280.
This lot can be submitted to Gong Bo Grading for certification after the auction at the buyer's request. If you would like to exploit this option, please contact HK@HA.com.
https://coins.ha.com/itm/china/china-qing-dynasty-yunnan-sanchuo-bianding-three-stamp-slab-sycee-of-5-taels-nd-c-19th-century-choice-au-/a/3092-38070.s?type=CoinArchives3092
HID02906262019
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Estimate: 2000-4000 USD