Renminbi 1 Fen

This 1 Fen coin was the first in the People's Republic of China to be struck in aluminum, a practical choice amid post-war material shortages.

That shift happened in 1955, with production continuing through 1980. The obverse featured the national emblem, while the reverse showed the denomination in both Chinese characters and numerals. Designers kept it simple, as was typical for the era. Aluminum planchets were likely sourced domestically, though exact suppliers remain unclear.

Mintage figures vary by year, but records are spotty; some estimates suggest millions were produced annually, yet I wouldn't swear to it. Over the decades, wear was common due to the metal's softness.

Collectors might note its edge is plain, not reeded, which made it easy to stack but prone to counterfeiting attempts. As for a joke, the coin's lightness meant you could carry a pocketful without noticing—until you went to spend it.

Variations exist, like different die types, but they're minor.