1896-1903 China Fukien Province L&M-296 Dragon 20 Cash - PCGS VF 35
Product Description
Expand your collection of late-imperial Chinese provincial coining with this 1896–1903 Fukien Province Dragon 20 Cash, cataloged as L&M-296. Struck during the late Qing dynasty at the regional Fukien mint, this 20 Cash fractional issue features the iconic scaled dragon motif and serves as an important regional variety for specialized collectors.
Key Highlights:
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Desirable L&M-296 Variety: Features the specific die markers, layout, and calligraphy designated under the L&M-296 attribution, highly prized by advanced East Asian copper specialists.
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Choice Very Fine 35 Preservation: Certified by PCGS in VF 35 condition, displaying honest, even circulation wear that keeps the central dragon scales, pearls, and Manchu-Chinese inscriptions clearly legible.
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Controlled Census Profile: Supported by established PCGS population metrics, with 139 examples recorded at this specific grade tier.
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Core Cabinet Addition: A staple mid-grade holding for numismatists systematically building out regional late-Qing dragon copper series.
1896–1903 China Fukien Province L&M-296 Dragon 20 Cents — PCGS VF35
A scarce Qing Dynasty provincial silver coin struck at the Fukien (Fujian) Mint during the reign of the Guangxu Emperor. Featuring the iconic Imperial dragon design, this L&M-296 variety is a recognized and highly collected issue among specialists in Chinese provincial coinage.
Its value is supported by its provincial origin, classic dragon design, recognized L&M variety, historical importance, and certified PCGS VF35 preservation. An attractive survivor from the final decades of Imperial Chinese silver coinage.
Why this coin is valuable
1. Qing Dynasty dragon design
The Imperial dragon is one of the strongest collecting themes in Chinese numismatics. Dragon coins attract both general collectors and advanced specialists.
2. Fukien provincial rarity
Fukien issues were produced locally and are more specialized than common central-government types.
3. Recognized L&M-296 variety
The L&M attribution gives this coin importance beyond a generic Chinese 20 Cent piece. Variety collectors specifically seek these Fukien issues.
4. Silver provincial coinage
Silver provincial issues from the late Qing period are among the most collected Chinese coins because they represent China's transition into modern machine-struck coinage.
5. PCGS certification
A certified PCGS VF35 example provides authenticity and grade confidence, which is especially important for Chinese provincial silver coins.