Dr. Sun Yat-sen Founding Commemorative Coin Collection Starter Guide: 3 Editions + 5 Authentication Tips | Gu Jin Jian Bao

The Sun Yat-sen Commemorative Coin (colloquially known as "Sun Xiaotou") is the second most widely circulated type of Republic of China silver dollar, second only to the Yuan Datou. First minted in 1912, it was produced for over a decade. Its variant classification is simpler than the Yuan Datou, but there are still many pitfalls in authentication—especially the subtle differences between the "top six stars," "bottom five stars," and "English versions," which can easily confuse beginners. Below are the 3 essential versions, 5 key authentication points, and 10 frequently asked questions for beginners.

Part 1: 3 Main Versions

Version 1: Top Six Stars (Mainstream Circulated Version)

This is the standard circulated version of the Sun Xiaotou. About 90% of Sun Xiaotou coins in the market are of this version.

• Key Feature: Six small five-pointed stars above Sun Yat-sen's bust on the obverse.
• Mintage: Approximately 50 million pieces (between 1912-1928).
• Existing Quantity: Approximately 5 million pieces.
• Market Price: Common VF HK$1,500-3,500; PCGS MS62 approximately HK$3,800; MS65 approximately HK$15,500.
• Suitable For: Beginners, as a first choice.

Version 2: Bottom Five Stars (Rare Version)

A rarer version, with five small five-pointed stars below the reverse.

• Key Feature: Five stars below"Yi Yuan "(One Yuan) on the reverse.
• Mintage: Approximately 2 million pieces.
• Existing Quantity: Approximately 200,000 pieces.
• Market Price: Common VF HK$5,000-15,000; PCGS MS62 approximately HK$15,500; MS65 approximately HK$95,800.
• Suitable For: Intermediate collectors.

Version 3: Top Five Stars (Pattern Grade)

An extremely rare pattern coin, almost never seen in the market.

• Key Feature: Five stars above the bust on the obverse (instead of six).
• Mintage: Extremely small (estimated 50-100 pieces).
• Existing Quantity: Estimated 20-40 pieces.
• Market Price: PCGS MS62 approximately HK$450,000-750,000; MS64+ approximately HK$950,000+.
• Suitable For: Top-tier collectors.

Part 2: 5 Key Authentication Points

Point 1: Star Count Confirmation

Use a 10x magnifying glass to check above the bust on the obverse and below the reverse:

• 6 stars above obverse + no stars on reverse = Top Six Stars (most common)
• 6 stars above obverse + 5 stars below reverse = Bottom Five Stars
• 5 stars above obverse + no stars on reverse = Top Five Stars (extremely rare)

Point 2: English Spelling

Genuine coins have accurate English spelling:

• "MEMENTO"
• "BIRTH OF REPUBLIC OF CHINA"
• "ONE DOLLAR"

Any spelling error indicates a counterfeit. Most common counterfeit errors: "MEMENTOS" (extra S), "BRITH" (missing I), "DOLAR" (missing L).

Point 3: Sun Yat-sen Bust Details

Genuine busts are extremely exquisite:

• Clear hair layering, with individual shadows for each strand.
• Natural and well-defined jawline.
• Uniform depth in collar folds.
• Deeply recessed ear contour.

Counterfeit busts are often flat and blurry in detail.

Point 4: Reeded Edge Inspection

Genuine reeded edge features:

• Number of Reeds: 175-180
• Angle: Perpendicular to the coin surface (90°)
• Reed Tips: Sharp, neat
• Reed Roots: Consistent depth

Examine the cross-section with a 10x magnifying glass—genuine coins are flat with cold pressing marks; counterfeits are rough with metal flow marks.

Point 5: Physical Parameters

Indicator	Genuine Standard
Weight	26.4-26.8g
Diameter	39mm
Thickness	2.5-2.6mm
Silver Content	89%
Sound (tapping on wooden table)	Long resonant hum

Part 3: 10 Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How to distinguish between Sun Xiaotou and Yuan Datou?

A: The simplest way is to look at the obverse bust—Sun Xiaotou features a youthful Sun Yat-sen; Yuan Datou features a middle-aged Yuan Shikai with a beard. The design styles also differ: Sun Xiaotou has English text and auspicious grains on the reverse; Yuan Datou only has auspicious grains and"Yi Yuan "(One Yuan) on the reverse.

Q2: Why is it called "Sun Xiaotou"?

A: "Sun" is Sun Yat-sen's surname, and "Xiaotou" (small head) is a nickname relative to "Yuan Datou" (Yuan Shikai's head is larger). Sun Xiaotou's bust occupies about 60% of the coin's surface, while Yuan Datou's bust occupies about 75%. Thus, Sun's bust appears visually smaller, hence the name.

Q3: Does the Sun Xiaotou have an English version?

A: All "Top Six Stars" Sun Xiaotou coins have English text on the reverse (MEMENTO, BIRTH OF REPUBLIC OF CHINA, ONE DOLLAR). This was a product of early Republic of China's attempts at internationalization. The "Top Five Stars" version also has English text on the reverse.

Q4: Can Sun Xiaotou coins be cleaned?

A: Absolutely not. The natural patina on the surface is a crucial criterion for PCGS / NGC grading. Once cleaned, if it is graded as "Details" (cleaned coin), its value drops by 50-70%.

Q5: How should Sun Xiaotou coins be stored?

A: Use acid-free coin holders (to avoid chemical reactions), a dehumidifier cabinet (humidity 40-50%), and a constant temperature environment (18-22°C). Avoid direct contact with the coin surface (use cotton gloves) and avoid contact with glue or tape (which can release chemical gases harmful to silver coins).

Q6: Where can one buy genuine Sun Xiaotou coins?

A: Three channels: First, professional coin dealers (such as Gookam Treasures); second, reputable auction houses (Sotheby's, Christie's, China Guardian Hong Kong); third, PCGS / NGC graded coin dealers. Online platforms (eBay, Taobao) carry extremely high risk (about 80% counterfeits) and are not recommended.

Q7: Is it necessary to send newly acquired Sun Xiaotou coins for PCGS grading?

A: Not always, but it is recommended. For common VF-XF coins (HK$1,500-3,500), the cost of grading (HK$300-500) is a relatively high proportion, making it generally not cost-effective. However, for uncirculated coins graded MS62+, it is recommended to send them for grading, as this can significantly increase market liquidity and preserve their value.

Q8: What is the long-term appreciation rate of Sun Xiaotou coins?

A: According to auction records from the past 10 years (2016-2026), the annualized appreciation rate for Top Six Stars PCGS MS62 is approximately 8-10%; for Bottom Five Stars PCGS MS62, it is about 12-14%; and for top-tier pattern coins (Top Five Stars), it is about 15-18%. Overall, it outperforms Hong Kong stocks, the Hong Kong property market, and bank fixed deposits.

Q9: How to identify counterfeit Sun Xiaotou coins?

A: Five key points: First, English spelling errors (most common); second, flat and blurry Sun Yat-sen bust; third, rough or angled reeded edge; fourth, weight and diameter deviate from standards; fifth, lack of a century-old natural patina (counterfeits often have chemically induced artificial patinas).

Q10: What should I do if I find a Sun Xiaotou coin at home?

A: Follow these five steps: First, identify the version (count the stars); second, conduct a preliminary authenticity check (using the 5 points above); third, absolutely do not clean it; fourth, take clear photos and send them via WhatsApp to 98342057 for a free appraisal by Gookam Treasures; fifth, if it is a genuine MS62+ coin, consider sending it for PCGS / NGC grading.

Part 4: Newbie Staged Budget Planning

Stage 1: Entry Level (Budget HK$3,000-5,000)

Purchase 1 PCGS XF45 or AU58 Top Six Stars Sun Xiaotou. This is an ideal first step to understanding Republic of China silver dollars.

Stage 2: Upgrade (Budget HK$5,000-10,000)

Purchase 1 PCGS MS62 Top Six Stars Sun Xiaotou. This is an uncirculated coin with good original luster, offering stable future appreciation.

Stage 3: Advanced (Budget HK$15,000-30,000)

Purchase 1 PCGS MS62 Bottom Five Stars Sun Xiaotou, or 1 MS64 Top Six Stars Sun Xiaotou. These are core collectibles for Sun Xiaotou enthusiasts.

Stage 4: Top Tier (Budget HK$100,000+)

Pursue a PCGS MS65+ Bottom Five Stars Sun Xiaotou, or a PCGS XF45+ Top Five Stars Sun Xiaotou (pattern grade). This represents a top achievement in silver dollar collecting.

Conclusion

The Sun Xiaotou is the best choice for beginners in Republic of China silver dollars—it holds significant historical importance, has large market circulation, clear variant differences, and abundant authentication resources. By mastering the knowledge of these 3 versions + 5 authentication points + answers to 10 frequently asked questions, you will possess basic collecting judgment. The next step is practical experience—WhatsApp 98342057 to schedule a free on-site appraisal with Gookam Treasures and begin your Sun Xiaotou collecting journey.