The Coin Company have, with the Perth Mint, released their latest antique-finished high-relief coin, and it’s another showcasing five-ounce issue showcasing Chinese history and culture. Previous issues have included the Five Auspicious Creatures, Dragon & Phoenix, and Fu Lu Shou, amongst others (we really should profile this range!), but this latest coin is rooted firmly in historical fact, rather than mythology, for a change.

Ancient China was a place of constant internecine warfare, and where there’s conflict, there’s innovation. There’s nothing like a war for incentivising people to look for an upper hand! The coin has chosen five inventions tied to Ancient China, and they’re all impressive ones, which the mint has done a good job describing (reproduced lower down). Four of them occupy a quadrant, with the fifth in a central area, square, like the hole in Chinese Ban Liang coins.

The scenes, all done by Perth Mint regular artist, Natasha Muhl, are very clean and distinct, beautifully coloured in subtle shades. The central section, the compass, is just antique finished, but sporting higher relief. It’s all very well realised, not ambitious in execution, but attractive overall. The obverse is a simple effigy of King Charles III with surrounding issue inscriptions. A fascinating subject, encapsulated with style. Available to order now.

MINTS DESCRIPTION

SHIPBUILDING: China was one of the first builders of ocean-going ships for trade, exploration and military use. Important advances attributed to Chinese shipbuilders include the stern-post rudder and watertight bulkhead, prerequisites for manoeuvrability of large ships and safety of men and cargo on the high seas. During the 15th century, China constructed an expeditionary fleet comprising hundreds of large vessels, including ‘Treasure Ships’ said to be more than 400 feet in length, with multiple masts, and luxurious staterooms. Unparalleled in maritime history, the fleet extended Chinese trade and influence across the Indian Ocean region.

KITE FLYING: Invented in China more than 2,000 years ago, kites made from wood and fabric served useful military applications – like measuring distances between opposing armies. Large kites were capable of lifting men so they could observe enemy movements. The art of kite flying burgeoned with lighter construction materials including split bamboo, silk and paper, while whistles were attached to make musical sounds. Interest in traditional kites remains strong. Made in the shape of animals and other cultural icons, their decorative colours symbolising good luck and happiness, they are often seen soaring brightly in Chinese skies.

GUNPOWDER: In their quest for an elixir offering immortality, ninth century Chinese alchemists instead discovered gunpowder. According to one account of an early experiment, the incendiary substance burned down the house of those conducting trials. Over time, the formula evolved into precise ratios of saltpetre, sulphur, and charcoal. Knowledge of its explosive powers led to the development of fireworks – their bangs were believed to scare away evil spirits. Although far from the intention of its inventors, gunpowder was also harnessed in ancient Chinese weaponry, including fire arrows, and early bombs, rockets and cannons.