Tibet – Kong-Par Tangka Silver Coin
BE1524 (1890) | L&M-627 | One Circle Around Lotus – Connected Wen Variety | AU58
Description
A highly collectible 1890 Tibet Kong-Par Tangka silver coin from the final period of the historic Kong-Par coinage series. Issued by the Tibetan government during the late 19th century, this coin represents an important chapter in Himalayan monetary history and the unique relationship between Tibetan, Nepalese, and Chinese regional commerce.
The Kong-Par Tangka series was created as a local Tibetan silver coinage system and was influenced by Nepalese silver coin traditions that circulated widely in Tibet. The BE1524 (1890) date is one of the later dated issues of the Kong-Par series.
This variety features the famous Buddhist design of eight auspicious symbols surrounding a central lotus, enclosed within a single circle. The reverse displays Tibetan inscriptions and the date arrangement characteristic of this series. The lotus is an important Buddhist symbol representing purity, spiritual awakening, and enlightenment.
This example is graded AU58, an exceptional circulated grade with strong remaining detail and attractive surfaces. The Connected Wen variety is a desirable variety for specialists who study the many subtle differences found within Tibetan Tangka coinage.
A wonderful coin for collectors of Tibetan, Chinese frontier, Buddhist-themed, and world silver coinage.
Notes
Kong-Par Tangkas are among the most historically important Tibetan coins. The series was produced from the late 18th century through the late 19th century, with the final dated issues appearing in 1890 and 1891. These coins are admired for their Buddhist symbolism, regional history, and distinctive Tibetan artistry.
