The most influential coin in East Asian numismatic history. Kai Yuan Tong Bao established the size, weight, and form-language that Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese coinage followed for the next thirteen centuries.

What it is

Issued from 621 CE under Emperor Gaozu of Tang, the Kai Yuan Tong Bao (“Inaugural Currency Circulating Treasure”) replaced the older wuzhu standard with a ten-coin-to-one-tael weight standard. It is a cast bronze coin with a square central hole and four characters reading top–bottom–right–left: “Kai Yuan Tong Bao”. The character calligraphy was attributed to the leading court calligrapher Ouyang Xun.

What drives value

Condition (most circulated examples are heavily worn), patina quality (untouched dark green or red-brown patinas command large premiums), reverse mintmarks (small crescents, dots, and lunate marks identify mint and period), strike clarity of the calligraphy, and provenance from documented Chinese imperial-era collections. Spink China, China Guardian, and Stack’s Bowers Hong Kong handle most graded examples; PCGS and NGC both certify Chinese cash coinage.

About This collectible

The Chinese Tang Dynasty "Kai Yuan Tong Bao" Coin (621–907 CE) is a notable entry in the collectible category. Whether you are a seasoned collector or evaluating your first piece, understanding provenance, condition, and market context is essential for confident decisions. This guide summarizes what makes this item collectible and how to evaluate examples in the market.

Identification & Authentication

Authenticating a Chinese Tang Dynasty "Kai Yuan Tong Bao" Coin (621–907 CE) requires attention to period-correct materials, manufacturing marks, signatures, and chain of custody documentation. Where third-party authentication exists (PSA, JSA, Beckett, SGC, PCGS, NGC, or category-specific authenticators), graded examples carry significant premium over raw pieces. Consult a recognized authenticator before high-value purchases.

Valuation & Market Pricing

Values for the Chinese Tang Dynasty "Kai Yuan Tong Bao" Coin (621–907 CE) vary by condition, provenance, completeness, and demand. Track recent sold prices on major venues including Heritage Auctions, Goldin, Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and eBay completed listings to benchmark fair market value. Realized sales reflect true value; asking prices do not.

Condition & Grading

Condition is the largest variable affecting value. Use the grading scale appropriate to the category and document defects honestly. For graded items, verify certification numbers on the grader’s website. For raw items, photograph all surfaces under neutral lighting and disclose any restoration or imperfections.

Where to Buy & Sell

Reputable venues include major auction houses, established dealer networks, specialty shows, and vetted online marketplaces. Avoid private cash transactions with unknown parties for high-value pieces. Use buyer protection or escrow when transacting at scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Chinese Tang Dynasty "Kai Yuan Tong Bao" Coin (621–907 CE) is authentic?

Authenticity is best confirmed by a recognized third-party authenticator. Visual inspection alone is rarely sufficient for high-value pieces.

What is a Chinese Tang Dynasty "Kai Yuan Tong Bao" Coin (621–907 CE) worth?

Value depends on condition, provenance, and completeness. Check recent sold prices on major auction venues for comparable examples.

Where should I sell my Chinese Tang Dynasty "Kai Yuan Tong Bao" Coin (621–907 CE)?

For high-value pieces, established auction houses with category expertise typically deliver the best results. For mid-market items, vetted online marketplaces or dealer networks balance reach and fees.

Does grading add value?

For most categories, third-party grading adds meaningful value to top-condition examples. For lower-grade pieces, the grading fee can exceed the value uplift.