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(1990) Xuantong Yuanbao silver dollar, minted in Jiangnan Province, weighing 1 mace and 4 fen and 4 li. | Gu Jin Jian Bao

(1990) Xuantong Yuanbao silver dollar, minted in Jiangnan Province, weighing 1 mace and 4 fen and 4 li. | Gu Jin Jian Bao

【In-depth Analysis】Historical Background and Collection Value of Jiangsu Province-minted Xuantong Yuanbao

When it comes to the monetary history of the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, the Xuantong Yuanbao minted in Jiangsu Province has always been a focal point for ancient coin enthusiasts and investors. Historically, "Jiangnan Province" had been dismantled in the early Qing Dynasty, but the Nanjing Mint continued to retain the inscription "Jiangnan Province Minted" to maintain tradition and market recognition, making it a unique existence in Chinese monetary history.

This silver coin with a denomination of 1 mace 4 candareens and 4 li of Kuping tael (commonly known as "Shuangjiao" or "Erhao" by the public) witnessed the brief currency reform during the late Qing Dynasty's Xuantong reign (1909-1911). For collectors interested in understanding the market prices for ancient coin Buyback and purchasing, grasping its minting background and die characteristics is the first step in evaluating its collection and investment value as an old silver coin. Due to the very short reign of the emperor during the Xuantong period, the overall mintage of Xuantong Yuanbao was much lower than that of Guangxu Yuanbao, hence it is considered even more precious in today's auction and high-price acquisition market.

Xuantong Yuanbao (Jiangnan Province Minted) Core Specifications and Characteristic Parameters Overview

To help collectors more accurately distinguish authentic old silver coins from fakes, we have compiled the standard specification parameters for this silver coin. By checking the weight, size, and material, counterfeit products on the market can be initially screened out.

Parameter Item Detailed Feature Description
Minting Period Xuantong reign of the Qing Dynasty (approx. 1909 to 1911)
Mint Location Jiangnan Mint (located in Nanjing)
Coin Denomination 1 mace 4 candareens 4 li of Kuping tael (equivalent to a 2-jiao/2-mao silver coin, serving as a subsidiary coin)
Primary Material Silver-copper alloy (standard fineness typically between 70% - 80%)
Standard Weight Approx. 5.3 grams (actual weight may fluctuate slightly due to historical circulation wear)
Standard Diameter Approx. 23 mm - 24 mm
Obverse Design Features Four characters "Xuantong Yuanbao" minted within a beaded circle, "Jiangnan Province Minted" engraved on the upper rim, denomination "1 mace 4 candareens 4 li of Kuping tael" engraved on the lower rim, often accompanied by celestial stem and earthly branch year markers or specific floral star privy marks on both sides.
Reverse Design Features A classic coiled dragon totem of the Qing Dynasty in the center (the fineness of the dragon scales carving is a key Jian Ding factor), surrounded by the mint's English name and denomination.

Key Factors Influencing the Price of Silver Coins with 1 Mace 4 Candareens 4 Li of Kuping Tael

In the current high-price old silver coin Buyback market, Xuantong Yuanbao coins minted in Jiangnan Province can vary in price by several to dozens of times due to individual differences. Professional ancient coin appraisal and valuation typically consider the following three core factors:

  1. Condition & Grade: Whether the dragon scales on the silver coin's surface are three-dimensional and intact, and whether the edges of the characters are sharp and clear, directly determine its market tier. If evaluated by international authoritative organizations like PCGS or NGC and awarded a high grade, its acquisition price will often significantly increase.
  2. Original Patina: The naturally formed oxidation layer (patina) on the surface of silver coins after a hundred years of aging is an important basis for authentication. Original old silver coins with "rainbow toning" or retaining their original "cartwheel luster" are more favored by high-end collectors than those whose surfaces have been damaged by chemical cleaning.
  3. Variety & Rarity: Xuantong subsidiary silver coins minted in Jiangnan Province exhibit subtle differences in character thickness, floral star patterns, and dragon design details between different batches. Some specific years' error versions or rare privy mark versions are highly sought after at auctions due to their extreme rarity.

Silver Coin Preservation Tips:

  1. Avoid contact with hand sweat and grease: Sweat and grease from hands can damage the silver coin's surface, leading to oxidation or leaving fingerprints. When handling silver coins, it is recommended to wear cotton or latex gloves, or use tongs to avoid direct contact with the coin surface.
  2. Store in a dry environment: Silver coins are very sensitive to moisture, and a humid environment can easily cause them to oxidize and blacken, or even develop spots or corrosion. When storing silver coins, they should be placed in a dry environment; a dehumidifier can be used to reduce moisture in the air.
  3. Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can darken the silver coin's color and damage its luster. When storing silver coins, they should be placed in a dark place, such as a professional silver coin storage box or sealed bag.
  4. Use professional collection tools: Storing silver coins in specially designed silver coin boxes, protective capsules, or plastic sleeves can effectively prevent contact with the outside world, preventing scratches or oxidation.
  5. Avoid contact with other metals: Silver coins should not be stored with other metal coins to prevent friction from causing scratches or other damage.
  6. Regular inspection and maintenance: Avoid frequent cleaning of silver coins to prevent damage to their natural patina. If the silver coin surface shows oxidation, professional silver coin cleaners can be used, but strong acid or alkaline cleaners should be avoided.

Proper protection and storage are crucial for maintaining the condition and value of silver coins, especially for the long-term collection of precious silver coins. Guguanbao consistently offers high prices for various silver coins, provides free appraisal by professionals, offers the highest buyback prices in Hong Kong, and provides free doorstep collection with cash transactions. Feel free to contact us.


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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Under what conditions should a Xuantong Yuanbao be kept to make it worth collecting?

A: To maximize its collection value, a Xuantong Yuanbao should retain its original toning, original box, and certificate, show no signs of cleaning, and direct handling of the coin surface should be avoided as much as possible.

Q: How is a Xuantong Yuanbao considered "Uncirculated (UNC)"?

A: A Xuantong Yuanbao is considered UNC if it shows no signs of circulation, retains its original luster, and has no friction or wear. An original box and certificate are a bonus. Gujin Jianbao strictly assesses according to international grading standards.

Q: How are Xuantong Yuanbao coins with special serial numbers or first-day covers valued?

A: Xuantong Yuanbao coins with special serial numbers (such as low serial numbers) or first-day postmarked covers usually have a premium. Our experts will calculate an additional premium. We recommend keeping all original packaging and covers.

  • 1) Clients should first provide basic information about their collections via WhatsApp (852) 98342057. You can also contact us directly via this link.

  • 2) We will provide a preliminary quote after receiving your information.

  • 3) Both parties agree on a time and place (on-site inspection is available) to inspect the collection. We will provide a precise quote based on the actual condition of the collection.

  • 4) Confirm the sale and make payment in various forms such as bank transfer or cash.