Lot 1671

Description

China, Empire, Ch'ing Dynasty (1644-1911), issue in name of Kao Tsung as Ch'ien Lung (1736-1795), bronze presentation coin, 35 mm, rev. 'Tian Xia Tai Ping', (Hartwell 30.31, TFP 2235). Very fine and rare.

These pieces are described by Hartwell as Tianxia Taiping Coins with the reverse stating 'Heaven below Great Peace - Peace on Earth'. Often treated as amulets, although some of them were made at the Board of Revenue mint and hence can be classified as presentation pieces. Hartwell further notes that in the Register of Large Cash that 'These coins were used for presentation in the old Palace, each wrapped in a piece of rectangular cloth. They were received each time an emperor ascended to his ancestors, and were first cast in accordance with the newly established'. That is to say they were cast when an Emperor died to commemorate the new reign title.