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Rare High Grade Ming Dynasty Note.China was the first country in the world to use paper money, the e

Currency:USD Category:Coins & Paper Money Start Price:NA Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,610.00 USD
Rare High Grade Ming Dynasty Note.China was the first country in the world to use paper money, the e
Rare High Grade Ming Dynasty Note.China was the first country in the world to use paper money, the earliest report being brought back to the western world by Marco Polo in the 13th century. At the time, his report was not generally believed, as the people of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East used only metal coins and could not accept the idea of people taking written pieces of paper in payment for goods and services. It was not until 100 years later that his accounts were verified by the appearance in Europe of actual Chinese currency from the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). These very large notes (approximately 12" x 8") were printed by hand on mulberry bark paper. The paper as made by coloring pulp from the inner bark of mulberry trees with carbon, and squeezing it dry on bamboo screens. Separate wood blocks were made for printing the text of the note and the seal of the issuing emperor. The Chinese coins in use at the time were small, round copper coins about the size of our present-day nickel. Each coin had a square hole in the center, and large transactions were carried out with big bundles of these coins tied together with string. The face of these Ming Dynasty notes showed an illustration of these bundles, so that a person who was illiterate would be able to simply count the number of bundles of coins pictured and determine the denomination. The Chinese referred to this early currency as "flying money" because of its light weight and its ability to circulate over a wide area. The presently offered piece is undamaged, unrestored, and complete out to its original edges. The red print has faded, but the black remains clean and clear. Important notice: We expect to be auctioning lots at the rate of 200-250 per hour. On occasion eBay live bid software cannot keep up with the pace of the auctions where 4-5 lots per minute can hammer down, so we recommend that you place a realistic absentee bid now as insurance to avoid disappointment. Also please note that all Heritage/CAA lots purchased through eBay Live carry a 20% Buyer's Premium. Please make sure you read the Terms and Conditions.