Begin the Guangxu Yuanbao file with visible inscriptions
Transcribe the Fengtien mint wording, cyclical date, Kuping denomination and other legible text before applying the working one-tael name. Do not restore worn characters from a similar dragon dollar.
Preserve an overlapping edge sequence, weight, diameter, instrument and unit under the same number. Keep unfiltered complete and raking-light photographs beside those readings.
Record the dragon, bead circle, English lettering and denomination positions on the full faces. Mark any field hidden by a holder as unresolved.
Keep every close-up oriented
Treat naturally darkened zones, worn relief, incomplete strike, hairline abrasion and chemically altered colour as separate observations. Neither darkness nor brightness proves the attribution.
Countermarks, sleeves and provenance notes remain separate from inscriptions, dragon style, bead circle, metal surface and edge. Each supporting item retains the coin number.
Store overall photographs, located details, measurements, package and papers together. A later interpretation is added with its date rather than overwriting the first view.
Open a provisional record without forcing a name
Enter Fengtien Kuei-mao Guangxu Yuanbao as a working identity with visible wording, designs, available dimensions, enclosure and surface condition. Leave unreadable text pending.
Compare weight and diameter only after transcribing the mint, date and Kuping denomination. A specification cannot complete a missing inscription.
Make dragon and inscription views answer to one coin
Photograph complete inscription and dragon sides before details of scales, claws, bead circle, denticles, English letters or denomination. Keep the full circumference visible.
Number multiple dragon dollars before sorting by mint, date, denomination or dragon form. Their faces, edges and readings must never be exchanged.
Identify the source and consultation date for manufacture or issue history. Handwritten tags and online illustrations remain research indexes.
Define when direct examination is necessary
Dragon dollars sharing a broad name may differ in mint, date, denomination and design. Group them first by text visible on the metal, then inspect finer markers.
Images support inscription and damage mapping, while composition, subtle repair and enclosed edge areas may still require direct specialist review.
Reconcile the Fengtien Kuei-mao record
Put the complete edge and raw measurements beside visible mint, date and Kuping wording. Log countermarks, holes or rim work independently so damage cannot become an attribution feature.
Return each inscription and dragon detail to the original complete face before using it. Preserve the first photographs when a later direction or reading changes.
A holder, certificate or old sleeve supports provenance only after its number and seal are tied to this coin. State the area it prevents you from seeing.
Before handover, confirm that every photograph and reading points to this Fengtien Guangxu Yuanbao. An unlocated detail stays outside the summary.
For an enquiry, bring the object in its present holder with the raw measurement record. Do not clean, scrape the rim or sharpen the photographs first.
