NGC Shanghai Now Accepting Submissions of Chinese Cash Coins

Numismatic Guaranty Company® (NGC®) is pleased to announce that it is now certifying a limited range of Chinese cash coins through its affiliate, NGC Shanghai Business Information Consulting Co., Ltd. (NGC Shanghai). A special label celebrating these historic coins can be requested at no extra charge.

For centuries, China has been the cradle of cash coin production, and in contemporary times, these coins have evolved into an iconic representation of the nation. Primarily crafted from bronze or copper, cash coins are characterized by a unique feature: a central hole that allowed them to be threaded together, streamlining larger transactions. Initially cast, these coins eventually transitioned to being struck.

"NGC is excited to expand our certification services to cash coins, an important part of China’s extensive numismatic heritage. This once again demonstrates our ongoing commitment to a secure and vibrant numismatic marketplace in China,” said Steven R. Eichenbaum, CEO of Certified Collectibles Group, which includes NGC. “We are proud to have certified nearly 5 million Chinese coins and to have earned the trust of coin collectors and dealers in China.”

This is a cast cash coin in Uncirculated condition. Adjustment marks are often seen on Qing dynasty cast cash coins. Click images to enlarge.

Currently, NGC certifies cash coins of five emperors of the Qing dynasty: Shunzhi (1644-61), Kangxi (1662-1722), Yongzheng (1723-35), Qianlong (1736-95) and Jiaqing (1796-1820). Cash coins can be certified as “Genuine,” or with an adjectival grade such as Extremely Fine or About Uncirculated. NGC can encapsulate these coins in individual holders or as a five-coin set, with either the NGC Standard Brown Label or a special Qing Dynasty Label at no additional cost. Both labels are available in standard and NGC Oversize Holder sizes.

Common indicators of circulation are evident on this cash coin. Click images to enlarge.

Submissions of Chinese cash coins are eligible for the Bulk Vintage grading tier. Numeric grades will not be assigned to cash coins. In addition, cash coins that have been unearthed or have evidence of dirt, rust or other archaeological indications of being buried are ineligible for certification.

This is a special variety that is called an Arhat coin. According to lore, it was made of a melted Arhat statue, so it is seen as auspicious. Click images to enlarge.

NGC has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the Chinese coin market through its unwavering dedication to providing high-quality and reliable coin grading services. With a meticulous approach to evaluating coins’ authenticity and grade and protecting genuine ones in high-quality holders, NGC plays a pivotal role in instilling confidence among collectors and investors in the Chinese numismatic market. This commitment extends beyond grading to encompass educational initiatives, fostering a deeper understanding of numismatics within the Chinese coin collecting community.

Please note: At this time, cash coins may only be submitted to NGC’s office in Shanghai and cannot be submitted to NGC’s other locations.

About Chinese Cash Coins

The first standardized coins were produced more than 2,000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty, under the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Round, with a square hole in the center, these coins were known as "banliang" coins. Over the centuries, various types of cash coins were minted in China. The inscriptions on the coins typically included the emperor's title or reign name, the mint location and sometimes auspicious symbols or legends. The designs evolved with different dynasties, and the inscriptions often provide valuable historical information.

With the arrival of foreign trade and the development of modern banking systems in the 19th century, traditional cash coins faced challenges. The Qing Dynasty introduced modern coinage and paper money systems, gradually phasing out cash coins. By the early 20th century, they were mostly replaced by more convenient forms of currency.

Chinese cash coins appeal to collectors worldwide due to their historical significance and artistic value. Numismatists study the different coin types, inscriptions and minting techniques to understand ancient Chinese history, economics and culture. Collecting cash coins provides a tangible connection to China's rich numismatic history, and NGC Shanghai looks forward to protecting and preserving them.