Kansu. Republic Yuan Shih-kai Dollar Year 3 (1914) XF40 PCGS, Lanzhou mint, KM-Y407, L&M-617, Kann-759, Chang-CH222, WS-0706, Wenchao-1033 (rarity 3 stars). With characters "Kan Su" to either side of the bust. Notoriously popular as the first of only two Republican-era silver Dollar types from Kansu available to collectors, and reportedly the debut coin for this instantly recognizable portrait of Yuan Shi-kai that would come to grace the emissions of the young Republic of China. Well-known as an issue that frequently comes in poor conditional states, the offering here omits signs of cleaning, repairs, or unsightly toning, instead showcasing an even graphite patina and comparatively fine details. Mild hints of red-orange color can be found in localized regions around several of the characters, giving these usually weak features of the design a much more standout appearance. Not often encountered meaningfully finer, and a very appreciable example on the whole.

HID09801242017

© 2020 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

To the auctioneer's website