The Ban Liang Coin 半两

The Ban Liang coins take their name from their two character inscription 半两 ban liang, which means half a liang. These coins were traditionally associated with Qin Shi Huang Di, the first Chinese Emperor, who united China in 221 BC. Archeological evidence now shows that the Ban Liang was first issued in the Warring States period by the State of Qin, possibly as early as 378 BC. A remarkable find was some bamboo tablets amongst which were found regulations (drawn up before 242) concerning metal and cloth money.

Ancient Chinese coins were produced continuosly for around 2,500 years using the casting method, rather than being struck with dies as with most western coins. While nothing is known about the use of tortoise shells as money, gold and cowries (either real shells or replicas) were used to the south of the Yellow River. Although there is no doubt that the well known spade and knife money were used as coins, it has not been demonstrated that other items often offered by dealers as coins such as fish, halberds, and metal chimes were also used as coins. Archaeological evidence shows that the earliest use of the spade and knife money was in the Spring and Autumn period (770 - 476 BC).