cash 1403-1424 RRR Yong Le silver Emperor Cheng Zu , Ming dynasty, China

Four Chinese characters Yong Le Tong Bao / Blank. 24mm, 3.76 grams. Hartill p.247 (note); Zhonggup guqian daji p.1011 (rarity 3)

Under Emperor Yongle some silver cash were cast – these are extremely rare, but are more common than the silver cash of most other reigns. The purpose of these pieces is uncertain. It is likely they were some sort of gift or donative issues, cast to celebrate particular occasions or to give as gifts to temples or particular people.