| Description |
China Empire - Ming Dynasty 1 Kuan 1368-99 Pick-AA10, Smith-Matravers T36-20. PCGS Very Fine 35. The diversity of paper money in the Newman Collection spans the centuries and the continents. Eric P. and Evelyn E. Newman traveled the globe to well over 100 nations, fascinated by the numerous cultures they encountered; Eric, of course, was also captivated by their diverse numismatic items. The Ming Dynasty note offered is an historic issue of world paper money and essential for all well-rounded numismatic collections. It is not the first banknote issued, but it is very close. These mulberry-charcoal media notes were issued during the reign of the Hongwu Emperor, the first emperor of the Great Ming, and were based on notes issued by the Great Yuan. They were used to replenish government coffers after the overthrow of the Yuan. Printed on both sides in black with additional red overprints. The center of the face has the counters for the cash coin equivalent in their strings (ten of them). The stipulations in the bottom half of the face confirm that the note is as good as copper coin, and provides a warning of execution for the counterfeiter as well as the reward of 250 taels of silver along with the counterfeiter's assets to the accuser. The back has calligraphy stampings. Very nicely printed on both sides. The wear is moderate and even. A very sharp example of this iconic type. These are always in demand, by many different types of collectors, and this example boasts an important pedigree. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
From Newman X (Heritage Auctions, November 2018), lot 20001, realized $6600. |
