Han dynasty coinage

During the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), Chinese coinage primarily consisted of bronze, round coins with a square hole in the center, called “cash” coins. These coins facilitated trade and daily transactions. The coin inscriptions indicated the reigning emperor or the government authority and often included auspicious symbols. The consistent design helped standardize currency across the empire. Over time, metal composition and denominations evolved to meet economic needs. Han coinage was instrumental in supporting the empire’s expansion and commerce, reflecting advances in manufacturing and economic organization.