China’s rich history stretches back over 5,000 years, and its influence on the world is undeniable—from politics to food. Among its many contributions, China was also one of the first civilizations to mint coins.
Some of these ancient coins are museum pieces, but even modern Chinese coins can be extremely valuable. In fact, some can sell for millions!
Below is a list of 12 rare and valuable Chinese coins, along with their estimated prices. Remember, coins in the best condition fetch the highest prices!
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1. China-Kweichow 1928 Auto Silver Dollar
- This coin was minted for a provincial governor, but where it was made is still debated. Some believe it was created in Szechuan, while others think it was minted in Kweichow using “stolen machinery.” In 2018, a high-grade version sold for £70,000, which is around $93,000.
2. China-Chekiang 1902 20 Cents Silver Proof
- Produced by the Heaton Mint in Birmingham, UK, this coin features a unique “drunken dragon” design. Only a few are in circulation. In 2018, one sold for $88,000, and a rare silver dollar from this series could bring in over $1 million.
3. China-Heilungkiang ND 1896 50 Cents Brass Pattern
- This brass coin was made using dies crafted by German manufacturer Otto Beh. German patterns of Chinese coins are highly collectible, with one version selling for $140,000.
4. China-Kiangnan ND 1897 20 Cents Silver Pattern
- Another rare coin minted by the Heaton Mint in Great Britain, this “specimen” coin is prized by collectors and has been sold for as much as $78,000.
5. Republic of China ND 1916 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver, Hat Touching Brim
- The date of this coin remains a mystery. It wasn’t mentioned in a 1917 article on Chinese coins, which makes some believe it was minted later. However, it has been sold for more than $500,000.
6. Republic of China 1916 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver, Flying Dragon
- Coins with Yuan Shi Kai’s image are highly collectible, especially those with a clear space between the hat and the coin’s rim. One of these rare coins sold for $650,000, including a buyer’s premium.
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7. Republic of China 1929 S. Y. S Globe Dollar Silver Pattern, NGC MS65
- This coin was the first to feature a map or globe in its design. Only a few are known to exist, and each one is different. In 2016, a specimen sold for nearly $500,000, including buyer’s premium.
8. Republic of China ND 1912 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Brass
- There’s debate about the person on this coin. Some think it’s a provincial governor, while others believe it’s a military official. One version was sold for $345,000 in 2015.
9. Republic of China 1914 Yuan Shi Kai One Dollar Silver with Signature
- This coin’s value is boosted because it was engraved by L. Giorgi, an Italian known as the most famous Chinese coin engraver. In 2021, a version of this coin sold for $420,000.
10. Republic of China 1932 Sen Yat Sen Gold Standard 10 Cents Silver Pattern
- One of the first coins produced at the Shanghai Mint, this 10-cent piece featuring Sen Yat Sen sold for over $260,000 in 2021, including a buyer’s premium.
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11. Republic of China YR16 1927 Chang Tso Lin Silver Dollar
- This rare and valuable coin features the image of Chinese warlord Chang Tso Lin. In April 2022, one sold at auction for an astounding $2.125 million, making it the most valuable coin on this list.
12. China 1867 Shanghai Tael — With Rays
- Minted in Hong Kong, this coin has both Chinese and British emblems. Chinese officials rejected the design, and most coins were melted down. The few that survived are highly sought after. One sold for $1.99 million.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.