Tang Dynasty iron coins

Author: Yan Fushan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-07-01
Features: In the history of Chinese coinage, where bronze coins were the main currency, iron coins were a special type of coin. From the Western Han Dynasty to the late years of the Qing Dynasty, iron coins were cast in almost every dynasty. Among them, the Song Dynasty was the era that used iron coins for the longest period. Song Dynasty iron coins not only possess all the characteristics of bronze coins but also have more complex names and circulation areas compared to bronze coins, and are closely related to the monetary system and foreign policies of the Song Dynasty. Due to the long-term neglect of iron coins by collectors, research on Song Dynasty coins has primarily focused on the classification of bronze coin types. In recent years, with the continuous discovery of iron coins, they have attracted academic attention, and a number of high-quality research articles have been published. Iron Coins of the Northern and Southern Song Dynasties is the most comprehensive monograph on the study of Song Dynasty iron coins to date. The book includes 1,861 varieties of iron coins, each with exquisite rubbings, clear features, and accurate origins, serving as essential reference material for researchers. In addition to the overall introduction to Song Dynasty iron coins, the book also includes a chronology of the casting of Song Dynasty iron coins, a list of iron coin mints, maps of casting locations, and circulation area maps. We hope that the publication of Iron Coins of the Northern and Southern Song Dynasties will not only provide coin enthusiasts with a high-quality catalog but also offer valuable material for further in-depth research on Song Dynasty coins.