Lot 887
China - Empire. 1 K'uping (Liang) Tael, CD 1906 (Tientsin). Kuang Hsu Fr-1; Kann-1540; KM-Pn38. 37.24 grams. Facing, grimacing dragon encircled by clouds. Reverse: Central circle with four Chinese characters ("Ta Ching Gold Coin"), inscription and date above and below. Plain edge. Extraordinarily sharp and full strike for Chinese issues. The obverse wonderfully proof-like, with satiny to glossy devices on mirror field; the reverse with a few modest marks, on reflective fields with some light, random hairlines. Visually imposing, and Very rare. NGC graded MS-64.
The Empire mentioned here is actually the Empire established by the Manchu dynasty in 1644. This relatively small ethnic group from Manchuria (hence Manchu), through subeterfuge and clever planning was able to conquer the entire Chinese nation in 1644, and maintained their rule for almost three centuries. The Manchus were so successful, they were able to set up Taiwan, Burma, and Tibet as protectorates. The European incursion into China in the 19th century, and the domination by these Europeans, ultimately signaled the end of the Manchus. They were forced to abdicate in 1912.
Estimated Value $70,000 - 80,000.
Ex John H. Clapp collection; from Clapp estate to Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. in 1942; Illustrated in Money of The World, coin 134.
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| Realized $143,750 |
