Money of China

Money in China

Introduction

The first objects to be used as money by the people of China were natural seashells. This marked the beginning of a transition from the old system whereby goods were traded and bartered to a new age of monetary symbols. Then came the Bronze Age, during which the Chinese used their skills and wisdom to create a resplendent bronze culture. Bronze coins replaced shells as the currency of the age, and were supplemented by the circulation of precious metals such as gold and silver. With the emergence, growth and increase of marketplace trading, all kinds of money appeared and went into broad circulation. Following the historical developments of modern civilization, they gradually developed into the perfectly integrated credit and currency systems in place today. The history of money in China goes back more than 4000 years, and the types of money that have been used are many and varied, including ancient forms of money, gold and silver currency, copper coins, and paper money. The emergence of money gave people more freedom of movement and association. During every historical period or phase, the different materials and methods used in coining reflected not only political strength, but also the state of the economy and the level of technological development. Money has always been closely linked to the development of society. The changes and replacements of currencies tell a vivid story of the vicissitudes of nations, the rise and fall of dynasties, but also amply reflect the skill and imagination of the coiners who have made money into a rich, unique and exquisite art form. We sincerely hope that visitors to this exhibition will be able to further their knowledge and understanding of Chinese history and culture through an appreciation of the long history of Chinese money.

How coins were made in ancient China the earliest coining method used by the ancient Chinese was a very complex process. First a copper 'mother' mould was cast, then clay...