Our August Hong Kong Showcase Auction is already building up to be an impressive sale. For our first preview we offer a set of medals from the final years of the Ching government that are rarely seen at auction. These lovely medals bear an illustrious pedigree, that of renowned Sinologue, Eduard Kann. It is believed that Kann was the only individual to have the complete grouping of 1st, 2nd and 3rd class medals in silver. These medals were most likely issued starting in 1907, just after the Ching government reorganized and created a new combined department of Agriculture, Industry, and Commercial affairs.
The designs on the medals are nearly identical save for the central inscription on the obverse stating the class (1st, 2nd and 3rd). Two majestic dragons wind through the air amidst clouds, a stormy sea with frothing waves visible below. A flaming pearl is placed just between the open jaws of the two dragons, with the two Chinese characters noting the class just below. The reverse design for all three pieces is also nearly identical, with the central Manchu inscription differing for each piece (most likely noting the class). The general pattern shows a Manchu inscription to the left, Chinese inscription to the right. Within a linear border, two Chinese characters in center at top and bottom with two Manchu characters at left and right. These medals hold the distinction of being the finest certified examples for each of their respective classes. Pleasing old toning graces each of these examples. This is a nice evenly matched and highly attractive set with an exceptional pedigree.
Look for this and other Asian and world numismatic rarities in our upcoming August Hong Kong Showcase Auction and Sale. Preview these impressive medals along with the rest of our auction this July at the Stack’s Bowers and Ponterio office located in Irvine, California. For details please refer to the Events Calendar link at www.StacksBowers.com. To schedule an appointment, please call 800.458.4646. Our Stack’s Bowers Galleries August Hong Kong Showcase Auction is still open for consignments, so if you are interested in consigning your coins and paper currency (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact one of our consignment directors.
