Gaochang, 'Jili' cash coin from Gaochang (modern day Turpan County of Xinjiang), circa 499-640 AD, the Han Dynasty and subsequent dynasties sent garrison troops to fortify the area for defence. The descendants of these stationed solidiers along with migrants from Gansu and other provinces populated the area, eventually becoming its own kingdom with a line of kings named Qu which ruled for 141 years before being conquered by the Tang Dynasty in 640 A.D. The foundries and workmanship of Gaochang were excellent, resulting in quality coins which are thick and weighty. The Han lineage of the area is evident with the cash coin having 'Jili' (lucky) inscribed in the official script of Han characters. Only about a dozen of such coins have been discovered so far. Fine condition. An extremely rare and unusual ancient Chinese coin. Dr. Werner Burger Collection..
Estimate: 60000 - 90000