Composition : 99,99% silver
Mintage : 19,996

The shape of trade in ancient China

A first for the Royal Canadian Mint! This unique coin was inspired by the square-holed coins that came into use in China after 523 B.C. Many believe its round shape symbolized heaven while the square represented earth. These coins were cast from bronze and the holes enabled them to be strung on a cord. 1,000 coins forming the main purchasing unit in use at the time.

As the Chinese began to immigrate to Canada during the late 1800's, they quickly proved their worth as capable, hardworking labourers who demanded very little of their employers. They made a significant contribution tothe mining and railway industries and were excellent cooks, gardenersand launderers. However, with a language and culture that differed significantly from the European society that dominated 19th-century Canada, assimilation was difficult.

Ever resourceful, the Chinese created their own communities and overcame their chronic shortage of funds by using the square-holed coins from their homeland as trade tokens.

This coin is the first issue of the commemorative collection on China.
The first coin of the series, released in 2007, depicts the Chinese coin.
The second coin of the series, released in 2007, depicts the Maple of long life.
The third coin of the series, released in 2009, depicts the Maple of wisdom.
The fourth coin of the series, released in 2010, depicts the Maple of strength.
The fifth coin of the series, released in 2011, depicts the Maple of happiness.
The sixth coin of the series, released in 2012, depicts the Maple of good fortune.
The seventh coin of the series, released in 2013, depicts the Maple of peace.
The eighth coin of the series, released in 2014, depicts the

THE SHAPE OF TRADE IN ANCIENT CHINA - 2007 CANADIAN COINS is categorised COINS AND PAPER MONEY / 08- ROYAL CANADIAN MINT / 14- FOREIGN STORIES & CULTURES and sold by l'Imaginaire, a store and specialised website.