Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
May 2022 Hong Kong Auction 3-9 May 2022
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CHINA. Taiwan. "Old Man" Dollar, ND (1858-50). PCGS Genuine--Graffiti, VF Details.
L&M-319; K-1; CH-25-3; WS-0997. Despite the numerous chopmarks on the obverse and reverse, as well as some unidentifiable "graffiti," this piece nevertheless stands as quite RARE and historically important, essentially serving as the first struck silver crown in China. Somewhat interestingly, two round chops have been placed across the eyes of the "God of Longevity."
L&M-319; K-1; CH-25-3; WS-0997. Despite the numerous chopmarks on the obverse and reverse, as well as some unidentifiable "graffiti," this piece nevertheless stands as quite RARE and historically important, essentially serving as the first struck silver crown in China. Somewhat interestingly, two round chops have been placed across the eyes of the "God of Longevity."
Initially designed as a form of military payment, the Taiwan Dollar quickly gained the approval of the people and grew in popularity. This was primarily due to its high silver content, approximately 98% fine. At this time, the Spanish 8 Reales were the most widely accepted coin, it being 0.903, just over 90% fine. The obverse possibly depicts the God of Longevity, with characters that signify "Seven Two by the Treasury Scales." This represents the first depiction of what later became the standard "7 Mace 2 Candareens."
Ex: Dan Ching Collection.
Estimate: $8000 - $12000