Ming Dynasty, 1368-1644, 1 Kuan (1000 Cash), issued by emperor Hung Wu (1368-99), made of mulberry paper from the mulberry tree, top: six Chinese characters ”Ta Ming T’ung Hsing Pao Cha’s” (Treasure Note of the Great Ming) in K’ai Shu style, at centre: value ”1 Kuan” (Ten Strings) in K’ai Shu style (at this period one String was equivalent to 100 copper cash) with pictorial presentation of Ten Strings (1-Kuan) below, to left: ”T’ien Hsia T’ung Hsing” (To Circulate For Ever And Ever Under The Heavens), to right: ”Ta Ming Pao Cha’o” (Great Ming Treasure Note), Chinese text lower centre meaning ”This note of the Great Ming is printed with the approval of the Hung Wu Emperor (year 1368-1398) through the Hu Pao (the Ming Finance Department) and used side by side with copper cash. Those who counterfeit the Great Ming notes will be beheaded while an informant will be rewarded with 250 Taels of silver and with confiscated property of the convicts into the bargain”, red square seal on the back (equivalent of a signature). In PMG large holder, graded VF 30, large tear.
Proveniens:
Ex. Sophus Black Collection, renowned Danish collector and engineer who was employed by the Great Northern Telegraph Company and stationed in China from 1902 to 1931.
