China – Qing Dynasty Charm Coin – Key-shaped “Guangxu Tongbao” (late 19th c.)
•Material: Bronze/Copper alloy
•Weight: 18.77 g
•Dimensions: approx. 45–55 mm in height (round + rectangular section combined)
•Date: Qing dynasty, late 19th century (Guangxu reign, 1875–1908), made as a charm/amulet, not circulating money
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Obverse:
Round section with central square hole and inscription 光绪通宝 (Guangxu Tongbao), imitating the standard coinage of the Guangxu Emperor.
Below, the rectangular extension inscribed with additional Chinese characters, often auspicious or symbolic.
Reverse:
Plain, with casting lines visible.
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Historical Note:
•This is not a standard circulating coin, but rather a numismatic charm or amulet, cast in the late Qing period.
•Such charms combined traditional coin inscriptions (Tongbao) with symbolic designs, and were often carried for luck, prosperity, or protection.
•The weight and larger form (18,77 g) make it distinct from regular cash coins (~3–5 g).