✨ His Story Treasures Presents
A Large-Denomination Iron Coin from the Southern Song Economy
This certified Chunxi Tongbao (淳熙通宝) iron cash coin was cast in 1188 AD, during the reign of Emperor Xiaozong of the Southern Song Dynasty, and belongs to the 折二 (Zhé Èr) denomination — a larger, higher-value issue compared to standard iron cash.
折二 coins were not everyday small change. They were intended for larger transactions, institutional payments, or regions where iron currency played a dominant economic role.
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📜 Historical Context — Why 折二 Matters
By the late 12th century, the Southern Song faced chronic copper shortages and fiscal pressure. To stabilize commerce, the state expanded the use of iron currency, especially in larger denominations such as 折二.
A 折二 iron coin represents double the nominal value of a standard cash coin, requiring:
• More metal
• More controlled production
• Greater acceptance by markets
As a result, surviving 折二 iron issues are scarcer, especially in identifiable varieties and certified holders.
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🪙 Coin Specifications
• Dynasty: Southern Song Dynasty
• Reign / Era: Chunxi (淳熙), Emperor Xiaozong
• Date: 1188 AD
• Denomination: 折二 (Zhé Èr — Large / Double Cash)
• Type: Iron Cash Coin (铁钱)
• Inscription: 淳熙通宝
• Variety: Back “Chun Fifteen” (背春十五)
• Material: Iron
• Diameter: 27.6 mm
• Weight: 6.7 g
• Grade: 极美 80 (Very Fine+ equivalent)
• Certification: Bao Cui Coins Rating
• Certificate No.: B2A36C3279
Professionally authenticated and encapsulated.
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🌏 Why Collectors Should Care
• ✔ 折二 denomination — larger and more significant than common cash
• ✔ Certified iron issue from a documented Song era
• ✔ Back-marked variety adds scholarly interest
• ✔ Excellent bridge piece: entry-level price with mid-tier depth
• ✔ Rarely offered certified outside the Chinese domestic market
This is a coin that teaches monetary history, not just calligraphy.
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🎁 His Story Treasures Promise
His Story Treasures specializes in:
• Chinese dynastic coins
• Rare regimes & monetary systems
• Historically honest, educational collecting
Every piece is selected for context, authenticity, and long-term collector value.