1368 Ming Dynasty Hongwu Tongbao – GBCA 85 Bronze Coin
A remarkable piece of early Ming Dynasty coinage, this 1368 Hongwu Tongbao Bronze Coin was issued during the reign of the Hongwu Emperor (1368–1398), the founder of the Ming Dynasty.
The Hongwu Tongbao series represents the beginning of Ming imperial coinage and was introduced following the establishment of the Ming Dynasty in 1368. These traditional Chinese cash coins played an important role in the monetary system of one of China’s most influential dynasties.
This example measures approximately 22.7 mm in diameter, 1.5 mm in thickness, and weighs 3.4 grams. It has been graded GBCA 85, offering collectors a certified example of a coin more than 650 years old.
Coin Specifications
- Country: China
- Dynasty: Ming Dynasty (1368–1644)
- Emperor: Hongwu Emperor (1368–1398)
- Date: 1368
- Type: Hongwu Tongbao
- Composition: Bronze
- Weight: 3.4 grams
- Size: 22.7 × 1.5 mm
- Grade: GBCA 85
Historical Background
The Hongwu Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, founded the Ming Dynasty after overthrowing the Yuan Dynasty. The introduction of the Hongwu Tongbao coinage marked the beginning of a new imperial monetary system and helped establish the economic foundation of the Ming Empire.
Chinese cash coins such as this circulated for centuries and remain highly collectible due to their historical importance, calligraphy, mint variations, and connection to China’s imperial past.
A fascinating addition for collectors of Ming Dynasty coins, Chinese cash coins, Imperial China, Asian historical currency, and ancient world coin collections.
