ObverseImage: Wikimedia Commons · The government of the Republic of China. · Public domain
Sun Yat-sen Dollar
China
1912–1949
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$60.35
Based on Silver spot price ($79.15/oz) · 89.5% purity · 26.5g
Updated 10:13 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | China |
| Years Minted | 1912–1949 |
| Composition | 89.5% silver |
| Weight | 26.5 g |
| Diameter | 39 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Reeded |
Design
Obverse
Features a bust of Sun Yat-sen facing left, surrounded by Chinese inscriptions.
Reverse
Depicts the value '1 Yuan' in Chinese and English, with decorative elements.
History & Notable Facts
The Sun Yat-sen dollar was the first Chinese coin to feature a portrait of a real historical figure, breaking centuries of imperial tradition with his bust on the obverse.
Struck in .900 fine silver, these coins often used planchets from repurposed foreign bullion, a practical nod to China's monetary shortages. The reverse designs varied—some showed a junk ship, others a temple—reflecting the Republic's unsteady grip on unity. Mintage records are spotty; much was lost in the wars that followed.
Production spanned multiple mints, from Shanghai to foreign facilities like the San Francisco Mint, as the government scrambled for allies. While fakes abound, genuine pieces turn up with clear strikes and that characteristic edge reeding.
It's no surprise enthusiasts confuse them with propaganda, but they were just currency in a changing world.
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