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Republic of China Silver Coin 1934 "Junk Dollar 1 Dollar Silver Coin" Sun Yat-sen Statue
Today's Purchase Price
MS
AU
XF
VF
¥100,000
¥25,000
¥18000
¥15,000
Cleaned
¥10,000
Diameter :
Weight :
Purity :
Thickness :
39 mm
26.73 g
88% Silver
3 mm
Product Description
Republic of China Sun Yat-sen Junk Dollar (1933-1949) Silver Coin
— The Story of a One-Yuan Silver Coin Reflecting the Ideals and Anxieties of Modern China —
From Goldsilverjapan
China's modern history is a complex mix of upheaval, reform, and the pursuit of ideals. Did you know that one silver coin symbolizes the values and turmoil of the era? That coin is the "Sun Yat-sen Junk Dollar," a one-yuan silver coin from the Republic of China era.
This coin is one of the "Republic of China Sun Yat-sen One-Yuan Silver Coins" issued from 1933 to 1949, and is a type that does not feature the sun or bird on the reverse. Due to confusion at the time of issuance, differences in design, the complexity of the mintage, and global interest, it has now become a highly sought-after coin among international coin collectors, even beyond Asia.
At Goldsilverjapan, we aim to accurately communicate the appeal of this historically rich coin to investors and collectors, revealing its potential as a valuable asset.
What is the Sun Yat-sen Junk Dollar?
The nickname "Junk Dollar" comes from the traditional Chinese sailing ship (junk) design on the reverse of this coin. A junk is the name of a Chinese-style sailing ship with a long history and is a symbol of Chinese trade.
The obverse features a profile of Sun Yat-sen (Sun Yat-sen), known as the father of the Chinese Revolution. His handsome portrait, facing left, is widely known as a symbol of his integrity and idealism. Above him is the year of issue, such as "22nd Year of the Republic of China (1933)." The reverse features a two-masted junk facing right, flanked by the characters "壹圓 (1 yuan)."
This coin's greatest features are its wide variety and the fact that it has been restrike by the United States Mint. In 1949, the same coin was restruck at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints in the United States. Several minor differences remain, making it a subject of study among experts and collectors.
Coin Specifications and Composition
This 1 Yuan silver coin measures 39 mm in diameter, 3 mm thick, and weighs 26.73 grams. It is composed of 88% pure silver (Ag) and 12% pure copper (Cu). Its circular shape and well-defined leading edges provide an anti-counterfeiting measure.
Milled, or machine-cast, minting technique ensured uniformity and reliability, making it suitable for use both within and outside China. It is denominated in the yuan, the currency unit of the Republic of China, and one yuan is the basic unit of currency at the time.
Historical Background and Political Significance
This coin was issued during a turbulent period in China, when China was under the rule of the Nationalist government while also being influenced by the great powers. Sun Yat-sen overthrew the Qing Dynasty and established the Republic of China in 1912. His ideals are widely known as the "Three Principles of the People" (nationality, civil rights, and people's livelihood).
The junk dollar was in circulation in the 1930s and 1940s, a time when the Chinese Civil War was intensifying. Amid a lack of foreign exchange reserves, inflation, and an unstable financial situation, the circulation of stable silver coins based on the silver standard was seen as a way to stabilize the economy.
However, with the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the ROC government moved to Taiwan, and this type of silver coin disappeared. Today, junk dollars are considered highly prized and nostalgic, symbolizing the lost era of the Republic of China.
Variations by Year of Issue and Market Value
This coin is primarily minted in the years 1933 and 1934. The former is estimated to have been minted at approximately 46.4 million coins, while the latter at over 128.74 million, with the 23-year mintage believed to be more prevalent in existence.
In addition, many coins reminted in the United States in 1949 are still on the market. While they share the same "壹圓" (one yen) designation, they can be distinguished by minor differences such as the number of ropes (the number of wires between the sails). The six-rope type is considered proof of reminting and is an important distinguishing feature among collectors.
Market value varies greatly depending on condition (VF to UNC), but generally follows these trends:
VF (Very Fine): Around $110
XF (Extra Fine): $140-220
AU (Almost Uncirculated): $160-400
UNC (Uncirculated): $240-540+
In good condition, lustrous, or completely unused (mint state), coins can often fetch several thousand dollars.
Attractiveness for Collectors and Investors
Junk dollars are highly desirable coins due to their aesthetic beauty, symbolism, political significance, and vast variety. They are particularly attractive as collectible and investment targets for the following reasons:
Historical Significance: This coin reflects the turbulent period of modern China and symbolizes the trinity of politics, economics, and culture.
Value as a Silver Coin: Its high silver purity (.880) ensures its value as bullion.
International Recognition: Chinese coins are highly sought after worldwide, and coins related to Sun Yat-sen, in particular, are prized by collectors outside of Asia.
Rarity and Research Interests: The numerous variations available make them popular research subjects for authenticity determination and re-strength identification.
Handling and Reliable Support at Goldsilverjapan
Goldsilverjapan specializes in handling Chinese and Asian silver coins, including junk dollars. Focusing on authentic and reliable coins, we offer precise authentication and condition assessments to help you find the perfect coin for your collection or investment.
We also offer purchase and appraisal services, providing fair valuations for collectors' valuable assets. We strive to quote prices based on market rates and the latest trends, and to provide prompt, courteous service.
Junk dollars are more than just silver coins.
They are metallic tokens that tell the story of the future that modern China sought to envision and the path that those ideals followed.
The one you hold in your hand may be the key to unlocking a door to history that transcends time.
At Goldsilverjapan, we deliver reliable value and trust, acting as a bridge connecting historic coins to the future.
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