1900–1906 China Kwangtung Flying Dragon 10 Cash – NGC XF45 BN
The 1900–1906 Kwangtung 10 Cash is a classic copper issue from Imperial China during the reign of the Guangxu Emperor. Produced by the Kwangtung Province mint, this attractive coin features the iconic Flying Dragon design that makes this series particularly popular among collectors of late Qing Chinese coinage.
The obverse displays the powerful Chinese dragon, surrounded by clouds and holding the flaming pearl, symbolizing imperial authority and strength. The reverse carries the Chinese and English legends identifying Kwangtung and the 10 Cash denomination. The issue is cataloged as Y-193 and was struck without a specific date, with production spanning approximately 1900–1906.
Struck in copper, the coin weighs approximately 7.52 grams and measures 28 mm in diameter. The Flying Dragon 10 Cash is especially interesting because the series contains numerous recognized die and design varieties, including differences in the dragon's spines and the Chinese character “Po.”
This example has been professionally certified XF45 BN by NGC. The XF45 grade indicates an Extremely Fine coin retaining considerable original design detail with moderate evidence of circulation, while the BN (Brown) designation indicates predominantly brown coloration.
According to the supplied NGC population figures, 69 examples are graded XF45 BN, with 187 examples graded higher. This places the coin within a substantial certified population while still representing a nicely preserved circulated example of this historic Chinese provincial issue.
The Kwangtung Flying Dragon series is an especially interesting area of Chinese numismatics because numerous varieties exist beyond the basic catalog designation. PCGS notes that the 1900–1906 10 Cash series includes several recognized varieties involving the number of spines behind the dragon's flame, the placement of the Chinese character “Po,” and other die characteristics.
With its classic Flying Dragon design, late Qing historical significance, and NGC XF45 BN certification, this coin is an excellent addition to a collection of Chinese provincial coinage, Qing dynasty coins, dragon coins, or world copper currency.
