cash Very rare amuletic Kai Yuan 10- c. 13th-14th century, Song or Yuan dynasty, China

Four Chinese characters Kai Yuan Tong Bao / Blank. 45mm, 22.68 grams. Hartill -; Cf. Zeno 130068.

Ex-CNG.

Coins or amulets inscribed “Kai Yuan Tong Bao” were cast in various sizes in later periods. This 10-cash type is the most common of the large Kai Yuans – it was cast in the late Southern Song or Yuan periods (later 13th-14th century). The purpose of these coins is unknown – these were probably royal accession donatives, temple coins or amuletic coins of some sorts.