Summary

A machine struck specimen for a 1/2 cash coin for China

Obverse Description

Coin with square central hole design but with a circular hole; with the English word SPECIMEN around the hole.

Reverse Description

The date,1899, divided by the hole.

Edge Description

The edge is plain

Significance

This was an era when Provincial Chinese mints were introducing modern striking machinery. This piece, struck in Europe, was made to promote the quality that a particular press could offer, it was part of a sales pitch for a prospective Province.

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