Yunnan. Kuang-hsü copper Specimen Pattern 50 Cents ND (1908) SP62 Brown PCGS, Kunming mint, KM-Pn5, Kann-170x, cf. L&M-422 (for type, date unlisted), cf. WS-0669 (for type). Two circles under flame ball, seven small circles on sides, large pearl variety. An extremely rare Pattern issue that is seemingly unlisted in the standard Chinese numismatic reference materials and catalogs. While we do find references and regular market appearances for the silver non-Pattern issue, and even a recent appearance for a similar brass Pattern, the copper Pattern 50 Cents of 1908 has not been seen in over a decade, since 2013. Furthermore, only 6 examples have been graded in totality by PCGS, with this near-Choice example residing in the penultimate grade. The surfaces become illuminated by toning when observed, especially by the vibrant tangerine-gold that surrounds the dragon motif in a ring of fire. The offering at hand is truly an immaculate combination of rarity, visual beauty, and history of the era, creating a piece that is sure to garner enthusiastic bidder activity and awe. HID09801242017 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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