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Asian Coins and Paper Money
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Asian coins reflect the rich diversity of their countries and offer valuable insights into their histories.
Throughout history, monarchs and dynasties often minted coins bearing their images to assert authority over their people. Even today, in countries like Thailand, the image of the king on local currency commands deep respect, and defacing it can result in severe penalties.
Ancient China pioneered some of the world's earliest coins, which were cast in molds with a distinctive square hole, allowing them to be worn as ornaments. These coins were typically made of bronze to ensure uniformity.
During the Han Dynasty alone, over 220 million coins were produced using this method, making ancient Chinese coins more abundant than one might expect.
In Japan, coinage began in the 8th century, initially heavily influenced by Chinese models. The first Japanese silver coin, known as the "silver slug," was later followed by rectangular coins in gold and silver, transitioning to round coins with the advent of Western influences.
India boasts a deep numismatic history, starting with coins in the Iron Age around 700 BCE and earlier use of Cowry shells as currency. Over 2,700 years, various regions in India minted their own coins until British colonization and subsequent independence.
Many Asian countries initially used silver for coinage, with India producing the notable purity Fanams in the 17th century. Colonized Asian nations often adopted British currency, featuring British monarchs on their coinage reverses. These silver coins are highly prized by collectors today.
Modern Asian coinage predominantly uses basic metals such as brass, nickel, and plated alloys, reflecting contemporary economic and industrial realities.
