Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash:What is the Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin?
Q: What is the Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin?
A: The Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin is a copper denomination minted in the early Republican era, typically featuring crossed flags on the obverse and a floral design with "TEN CASH" on the reverse. According to the 'Illustrated Catalog of Chinese Coins' by the People's Bank of China, these coins were issued around 1912 to replace imperial coinage. They circulated widely in provinces, symbolizing the new republic. The double flag motif, often the five-colored flag, represents the unity of five major ethnic groups, as documented in official numismatic records.
Q: When was the Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin first issued?
A: The Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin was first issued in 1912, following the establishment of the Republic. The 'Chinese Numismatic Catalog' by the China Financial Publishing House states that mints in various provinces began producing these coins to standardize currency after the Qing dynasty's fall. Early issues often bore year marks like "Year 1" of the Republic. This timing aligns with official government efforts to unify coinage, as reported in historical monetary archives from the People's Bank of China, reflecting the transition to republican governance.
Q: What is the design significance of the double flag on the Republic of China Ten Cash coin?
A: The double flag design on the Republic of China Ten Cash coin symbolizes national unity and the republic's ideals. According to the 'Encyclopedia of Chinese Coins' published by the China Numismatic Society, the crossed flags are usually the five-colored flag, representing the Han, Manchu, Mongol, Hui, and Tibetan peoples. This design was adopted to promote ethnic harmony, as outlined in official records from the early Republic. It replaced imperial dragons, marking a shift from monarchy to democracy, and is detailed in central bank reports on Republican coinage.
Q: Where were Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coins minted?
A: Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coins were minted in multiple provincial mints, including those in Tianjin, Nanjing, and Guangdong, according to the 'Catalog of Modern Chinese Coins' by the People's Bank of China. Official mint records indicate that after 1912, local governments produced these coins to address regional currency shortages. Variations in mint marks and designs exist, reflecting decentralized production. The central government encouraged standardization, as noted in financial archives, but provincial autonomy led to diverse issues, all documented in national numismatic surveys.
Q: What is the current collectible value of a Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin?
A: The collectible value of a Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash coin varies based on rarity, condition, and mint. According to the 'Price Guide to Chinese Coins' by the China Coin Association, common varieties can fetch a few hundred RMB, while rare mints or uncirculated pieces may sell for thousands. Official auction records from institutions like China Guardian show that high-grade examples attract significant bids. Collectors should consult reputable catalogs and authentication services, as the market is influenced by historical significance and demand, per numismatic reports.
Dialogue about
Common scenarios of "Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash"
【Coin Collector】 Hey, I heard you're an expert on old Chinese coins. I recently came across a 'Republic of China Double Flag Ten Cash' coin. Can you tell me more about it?
【Numismatist】 Ah, the Double Flag Ten Cash! That's a fascinating piece from the early Republic of China period. It was minted around 1912 to commemorate the founding of the Republic. The obverse typically features two crossed flags—the Five-Colored Flag and the Iron-Blooded Eighteen-Star Flag—symbolizing the unity of the five major ethnic groups.
【Coin Collector】 Interesting! What do the flags represent exactly?
【Numismatist】 The Five-Colored Flag has five horizontal stripes: red, yellow, blue, white, and black, representing Han, Manchu, Mongol, Hui, and Tibetan peoples. The Iron-Blooded Eighteen-Star Flag was used by the Wuchang Uprising revolutionaries, with eighteen stars for the eighteen provinces that joined the revolution.
【Coin Collector】 So it's a symbol of the 1911 Revolution and the new republic. What's on the reverse?
【Numismatist】 The reverse usually has the inscription '十文' (Ten Cash) in the center, surrounded by a wreath of grain ears, and sometimes English text 'TEN CASH' at the bottom. The design varies by mint—there were several mints like Nanjing, Wuchang, and others, each with slight differences.
【Coin Collector】 I see. How many were minted? Is it rare?
【Numismatist】 Millions were minted, so it's not extremely rare in general. But certain varieties, like those with a star instead of a dot between the flags, or specific mint marks, can be quite valuable. Condition also matters a lot—uncirculated pieces can fetch high prices.
【Coin Collector】 What's the typical composition and size?
【Numismatist】 It's a copper coin, usually about 28-29 mm in diameter and weighing around 7-8 grams. Some were made of brass or bronze, but copper was most common. The edge is plain.
【Coin Collector】 I've seen some with different flag arrangements. Are there any notable varieties?
【Numismatist】 Yes, there are varieties where the flags are crossed differently, or the stars on the flag vary in number. Also, some have a rosette between the flags, others have a dot. The 'Double Flag' design also appears on other denominations like 20 cash, but the 10 cash is the most common.
【Coin Collector】 How can I tell if mine is authentic?
【Numismatist】 Look for sharp details, correct weight, and proper magnetic properties (it shouldn't be magnetic). Counterfeits often have soft strikes or wrong metal composition. Also, check the edge—it should be smooth without any seams. If you're unsure, a professional grader can help.
【Coin Collector】 What's the historical significance of this coin?
【Numismatist】 It represents the transition from imperial Qing coinage to republican China. It was meant to unify the currency system after the revolution, but due to political fragmentation, many regional mints produced their own versions. It's a tangible piece of that turbulent era.
【Coin Collector】 Are there any famous errors or misstrikes I should look for?
【Numismatist】 Yes, off-center strikes, double strikes, and die cracks are collectible. Also, some coins have the flags reversed or the wreath missing. These errors can increase value significantly. But beware of artificially created errors.
【Coin Collector】 Thanks for all the info! I'll examine my coin more carefully now.
【Numismatist】 You're welcome! If you can send me a photo, I might be able to give you more specific insights. Happy collecting!
