Hsüang-t'ung silver Specimen Pattern "Short-Whiskered Dragon" Dollar Year 3 (1911) SP64+ PCGS, Tientsin mint, KM-Pn3...

Description

Apex Predator of Chinese Numismatics - The Legendary "Short-Whiskered" Pattern

Hsüang-t'ung silver Specimen Pattern "Short-Whiskered Dragon" Dollar Year 3 (1911) SP64+ PCGS, Tientsin mint, KM-Pn307 (Rare), L&M-30 (this coin), Kann-224, Chang Foundation-34 (this coin), Chang-29 (Extremely Rare). A coin of mythic proportions, an absolute apex of Chinese numismatics -- the legendary "Short-Whiskered" Dragon. Part of the well-recognized 1911 Ta Ching dollar patterns from the Central Mint in Tientsin, this type was produced during a transformative period in Chinese monetary history, as the imperial government worked toward a unified national coinage. Under the direction of chief engraver Luigi Giorgi, a series of experimental dollar designs was created, each featuring a similar obverse (reverse as holdered) paired with varying dragon motifs on the reverse (obverse as holdered). These patterns represent the final phase of Qing Dynasty coinage, struck on the eve of the dynasty's collapse. Among these, the "Short-Whiskered" variety wields an acute magnetism.

This dragon displays a broader, more forceful head with noticeably shorter whiskers, measuring roughly nine millimeters in length, in contrast to the longer, more delicate whiskers seen on the related and more attainable "Long-Whiskered" type. This compact and powerful rendering gives the "Short-Whiskered" dragon a markedly different visual character, a youthful ferocity that is all but absent from its venerable "Long-Whiskered" cousin. The rarity of this "Short Whiskered" type cannot be overstated. Early numismatic research recorded only a handful of examples, and even today the total number of confirmed specimens remains exceptionally small. Of the eight documented survivors only three are privately owned, this example being the first on public offer since its appearance in the Chang Foundation Collection, and it remains the only example certified across PCGS and NGC.

For all its absolute rarity, it is just as notable to understand how appealing this piece is in hand. Glistening surfaces host an ensemble of stormy blue, violet, and rose tones, all coalescing in a chiaroscuro that amplifies the drama and energy of the dragon. The reverse displays a slightly more olive patina, but still carries continuous columns of polychromatic tone that match the appearance of the obverse. Truly, this coin is just as impressive in hand as it is in the mind's eye. History surrounds us here at Heritage, but this treasure is in a league of its own. May the battle of the "Short-Whiskered" dragon begin!

Ex. Chang Foundation Collection; Eli Wallitt Collection

Metal: Silver
Diameter: 39mm

NOTE: This lot was manufactured in China and was sourced from outside the United States for this auction after September 1, 2019. Under the new US tariffs on Chinese goods, collector's items from China will be subject to an import tariff. Any clients who wish to take delivery of this item in the United States should be aware of this added charge, and consult their tax adviser with any questions. If you choose to take delivery in the United States and purchase both tariffed and non-tariffed lots from this auction, please note that the automatic invoice you receive after the auction will be incorrect; you will be emailed revised invoices shortly afterwards. The lots that fall under the tariff will be invoiced separately and will ship directly from our Hong Kong Office and carry a separate, additional shipping charge.

More information about Chinese Coins. See also: China World Coin Nationality.

View Certification Details from PCGS