China is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, with a history dating back more than 5,000 years. Over time, China has greatly influenced the world, including in the way governments are run and what foods are eaten. One important part of China’s rich history is its coins. China was one of the first civilizations to make coins, with some dating back over 2,000 years. While those coins are rare and found mostly in museums, even more recent Chinese coins can be worth a lot of money, sometimes up to $2 million. Let’s take a look at 12 of the most valuable Chinese coins, based on information from CoinValueLookup.
1. China-Kweichow 1928 Auto Silver Dollar
This coin was made for a provincial governor. There are still questions about where it was actually minted. Some experts think it was made in Szechuan, while others believe it was minted in Kweichow using “stolen machinery.” A high-grade version of this coin sold for 70,000 British pounds sterling in 2018, which was about $93,000 at that time.
2. China-Chekiang 1902 20 Cents Silver Proof
This coin was created by the Heaton Mint in Birmingham, UK, and shows a unique “drunken dragon” design. It was made in different amounts, but only a few of each exist. In 2018, one of these coins sold for $88,000. Another rare silver dollar from the same series is expected to be worth over $1 million.
3. China-Heilungkiang ND 1896 50 Cents Brass Pattern
This brass 50-cent coin was created using dies made by Otto Beh, a German expert in coin manufacturing. German-made patterns of Chinese coins are highly valuable to collectors. One of these coins was sold for $140,000.
4. China-Kiangnan ND 1897 20 Cents Silver Pattern
This coin was also made by Great Britain’s Heaton Mint for the Chinese government. It’s a special type of coin that collectors highly value, with one being sold for as much as $78,000.
| Coin Name | Year | Material | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| China-Kweichow 1928 Auto Silver Dollar | 1928 | Silver | $93,000 |
| China-Chekiang 1902 20 Cents Silver Proof | 1902 | Silver | $88,000 |
| China-Heilungkiang ND 1896 50 Cents Brass Pattern | 1896 | Brass | $140,000 |
| China-Kiangnan ND 1897 20 Cents Silver Pattern | 1897 | Silver | $78,000 |
| Republic of China ND 1916 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver | 1916 | Silver | $500,000+ |
| Republic of China 1916 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Flying Dragon | 1916 | Silver | $650,000 |
| Republic of China 1929 S.Y.S Globe Dollar | 1929 | Silver | $500,000 |
| Republic of China ND 1912 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Brass | 1912 | Brass | $345,000 |
| Republic of China 1914 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar | 1914 | Silver | $420,000 |
5. Republic of China ND 1916 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver, Hat Touching Brim
The exact year this coin was made is unclear. No records mention its existence until after 1917, leading to speculation that it could have been minted later. Despite this, the coin has been sold for more than $500,000.
6. Republic of China 1916 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver, Flying Dragon
This coin, which shows Yuan Shi Kai, is especially valuable due to its rarity. One version with a clear space between Yuan’s hat and the rim of the coin sold for $520,000. With added fees, the total price was $650,000.
7. Republic of China 1929 S.Y.S Globe Dollar Silver Pattern, NGC MS65
This was the first Chinese coin to feature a globe in its design. Only a few of these coins are known to exist, and each one is different. In 2016, one of these coins sold at auction for nearly $500,000.
8. Republic of China ND 1912 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Brass
There is some debate about who is shown on this coin. Some believe it is a former provincial governor, while others think it shows a military or government official. In 2015, one of these coins sold for $345,000.
9. Republic of China 1914 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver with Signature
Part of the value of this coin comes from the fact that it was engraved by L. Giorgi, an Italian who is considered the most famous engraver of Chinese coins. In 2021, one version of this coin sold for $420,000.
Conclusion
Chinese coins are not only valuable because of their age but also due to their unique designs, historical significance, and rarity. Some of the most expensive Chinese coins ever sold have fetched prices up to $2 million. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just starting, learning about these valuable Chinese coins could be the key to uncovering a hidden treasure in your collection.
FAQ’s
What makes Chinese coins so valuable?
Chinese coins, especially rare ones, hold great historical and cultural value. Some are made with precious metals, and their rarity makes them highly sought after by collectors.
Can modern Chinese coins be valuable?
Yes, even modern Chinese coins can fetch high prices if they are rare, in good condition, or have unique designs.
How can I know if my Chinese coin is valuable?
Consult a coin expert or visit online platforms like CoinValueLookup to check your coin’s potential value based on its condition and rarity.