1821 Qing Dynasty – Daoguang Tongbao (道光通寶)
Baoquan Mint | GBCA 88 | Brass Cash Coin
Offered here is an 1821 Qing Dynasty Daoguang Tongbao (道光通寶) brass cash coin, issued during the reign of the Daoguang Emperor (1820–1850). This coin was produced at the Baoquan (寶泉) Mint in Beijing, the central government mint responsible for official Qing cash coinage.
Historical Background
The Daoguang Emperor, personal name Aisin Gioro Minning, became the seventh emperor of the Qing Dynasty in 1820. His reign began during a period when the Qing Empire was facing increasing financial difficulties, corruption, internal unrest, and growing pressure from foreign powers.
Daoguang inherited many of these problems from previous reigns. One of the most significant challenges was the continuing growth of the opium trade, which contributed to economic instability and eventually led to the First Opium War (1839–1842). The conflict marked a major turning point in Qing history and China's relationship with Western powers.
This coin dates to 1821, only one year after Daoguang officially became emperor, making it an early issue of his reign.
About the Coin
The inscription 道光通寶 (Daoguang Tongbao) can be translated as approximately “Daoguang Currency” or “Daoguang Circulating Treasure.”
The characters on the reverse identify the mint. 寶泉 (Baoquan) means “Precious Spring” and was the traditional designation for the Board of Revenue Mint in Beijing, one of the principal mints of the Qing imperial monetary system.
Like most Qing cash coins, this piece was made in a copper-based alloy, commonly referred to as brass, and features the traditional round shape with a square central hole. The square hole allowed cash coins to be threaded together on strings for carrying, counting, and making larger payments.
Coin Details
Dynasty: Qing Dynasty
Emperor: Daoguang Emperor
Reign: 1820–1850
Year: 1821
Denomination: Cash
Inscription: 道光通寶 (Daoguang Tongbao)
Mint: Baoquan (寶泉), Beijing
Metal: Brass / copper alloy
Certification: GBCA
Grade: 88
Type: Qing Dynasty cash coin
Historical Significance
This coin was issued at the very beginning of the Daoguang era, during a critical transition in Qing history. Although the Qing Empire remained a powerful and enormous state, the 19th century would bring increasingly serious economic, political, and military challenges.
An 1821 Daoguang Tongbao therefore represents more than everyday currency—it is a tangible survivor from the opening years of a reign that witnessed some of the most consequential events in China's modern history.
Approximately 200 years old, this certified GBCA 88 brass cash coin is an excellent addition to collections of Qing Dynasty coinage, Chinese Imperial currency, or world coins.
Please see the photographs and GBCA certification for the exact condition, color, surfaces, and details of the coin.
