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- Product ID: 44509
The Vietnam Annam 1 Phan, issued between 1841 and 1847 and cataloged as KM#253a, is a notable coin from the mid-19th century that offers valuable insights into the monetary practices and historical context of Vietnam during the reign of Emperor Thieu Tri. Thieu Tri, the third ruler of the Nguyen Dynasty, succeeded his father Minh Mang and continued the dynasty's efforts to modernize and consolidate the country. His reign was marked by both challenges and reforms, including significant changes in governance and economic policies. The 1 Phan coin from this period reflects the coinage system implemented during his rule and serves as a testament to the era’s artistic and technological advancements in Vietnamese numismatics.
The design of the 1 Phan Thieu Tri coin is representative of the traditional style of Vietnamese coinage from the early to mid-19th century. On the obverse, the coin features inscriptions in classical Chinese characters, which were commonly used in Vietnamese coinage of the time. These inscriptions typically include the denomination "1 Phan" along with references to the reign of Emperor Thieu Tri. The use of Chinese characters underscores the cultural and political influence of China on Vietnam, particularly in the context of official and ceremonial matters. The characters are engraved with precision, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship involved in the coin's production. The overall design is characterized by its simplicity and elegance, with a focus on clarity and legibility.
The reverse of the 1 Phan Thieu Tri coin often displays additional inscriptions or decorative elements that complement the obverse design. These features may include traditional patterns or motifs that enhance the coin's visual appeal and authenticate its legitimacy. The reverse side may also feature the imperial seal or other symbols associated with the Nguyen Dynasty, which serve to reinforce the coin's connection to Emperor Thieu Tri and the broader historical context of his reign. The decorative elements are meticulously crafted, reflecting the artistry and technical skills of the period’s minting practices. The reverse design plays a crucial role in reinforcing the coin's official status and connection to the ruling emperor.
The minting of the 1 Phan Thieu Tri coin took place at state-operated mints in Vietnam during the mid-19th century. The minting process involved hand-operated presses and skilled artisans who carefully engraved the designs onto the coin blanks. This method, while less advanced than modern minting technologies, allowed for the production of coins with intricate details and a high level of craftsmanship. The minting process was an important aspect of Thieu Tri's efforts to establish a stable and consistent currency system. The craftsmanship involved in the minting process highlights the technical capabilities and artistic sensibilities of the era, as well as the importance of currency in reflecting the economic and political stability of the Nguyen Dynasty.
In Very Fine (VF) condition, the 1 Phan Thieu Tri coin exhibits moderate wear that has affected some of the finer details of the design. On the obverse, the inscriptions and the name of the emperor remain legible, though they are softened by wear and may lack the sharpness seen in higher-grade examples. The high points of the design, including the edges and raised areas, show more noticeable wear, which impacts the overall appearance of the coin. The reverse side also displays wear, with the decorative motifs and inscriptions being somewhat less distinct but still recognizable. Despite the wear, the coin retains its historical and numismatic value, offering insights into the monetary practices of mid-19th-century Vietnam.
The Vietnam Annam 1 Phan, KM#253a, is a significant piece for collectors and historians interested in Vietnamese numismatics. Its association with Emperor Thieu Tri and the Nguyen Dynasty provides a deeper understanding of the economic and political landscape of mid-19th-century Vietnam. The coin’s design, minting history, and condition provide a comprehensive view of the era’s currency practices and highlight the role of coinage in reflecting the broader historical and cultural context of Thieu Tri's reign. Collectors value the KM#253a not only for its historical significance but also for its representation of the artistic and technical achievements of Vietnamese minting during a pivotal period in the country’s history.