Tibet. Theocracy gold Fantasy 5 Dollars (1/4 Rupee) ND UNC Details (Filed Rims) PCGS, KM-X160, Kann-Unl. (cf. Kann-B91 for obverse, Kann-B90 for reverse), WS-Unl., Wenchao-Unl., SHI-Unl. By all indications of the utmost rarity within the gold 5 Dollar Fantasy series, a run of coins which seem closely connected both in terms of execution and shared dies. Carrying the left-facing portrait of Emperor Kuang-hsü most commonly associated with the Szechuan-Tibet Trade Rupees, the reverse employed for striking the present coin is identical with that seen paired with the Ci Xi 5 Dollars, seemingly suggesting a free exchange of dies within the same (likely private) workshop. The reverse depicted by Kann (Kann-B91) is much more in keeping for what would be expected for the Szechuan-Tibet coinage, copying a known official type (cf. YZM-441d), making its occasional pairing with the Ci Xi obverse appear erroneous (cf. Wenchao-1331). This piece shows a similar attention to detail as other entries within this series, including a clearly expressed pupil in the sitter's eye, ornate robes, and careful die polish. The first such example that has passed through our hands in over 10 years, and an unmissable opportunity for the enthusiast. From the Tony Ma Collection

HID09801242017

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