A Collector's Guide to Chinese Coins and Currency
For centuries, Chinese coins and currency have captured the imagination of collectors worldwide. From ancient cash coins with square holes to modern silver and gold pandas, these pieces are rich with history and artistry. (For the long story, see our guide to the rich legacy of Chinese coins.)
As expert buyers with over 30 years of experience, we have a strong demand for valuable Chinese coins from our clientele. If you have a collection of Chinese coins, perhaps one handed down in your family, you may be holding significant value. This guide will help you understand what to look for, how to spot a fake, and how to get a free professional appraisal.
Is Chinese Coin Currency Valuable?
They can be! We want to make clear that we do not purchase Chinese coin currency that’s currently in circulation. Instead, we’re interested in modern collectible and commemorative coins, as well as collectable China silver coins produced prior to 1949.
Here is a sample of some of the collectible Chinese coin currency we purchase:
- Silver Panda
- Gold Panda
- Platinum Panda
- Panda Commemoratives
- China Unicorn
- Pre-1949 Chinese silver: dragon dollars, Yuan Shikai dollars and junk dollars
Even better, there is no obligation to sell your China coins to us afterward. Feel free to use us as a pricing resource if you want!
Silver, Gold and Platinum Panda Coins
China’s panda coins are the best-known modern Chinese coins, and the ones families most often find in a safe or a drawer. The design changes almost every year, which is why collectors chase complete date runs and why the date on your coin matters.
- Silver Panda: issued in many sizes, from small fractional coins up to 1 kilogram. Since 2016 the popular one-ounce size has been struck as a 30-gram coin. Common bullion dates trade near their silver value, while early dates, proofs, low-mintage sizes and high grades can bring far more.
- Gold Panda: introduced in 1982, the gold panda comes in sizes from 1/20 ounce to one ounce and larger. Every gold panda is worth at least its gold content, and scarce dates and sets carry a collector premium. Learn more about selling gold coins and gold and silver bullion.
- Platinum Panda: struck in small numbers from 1987 to 2005 and brought back in 2021. The early platinum pandas are scarce and are often overlooked.
See our page on modern Chinese coins for more series we buy.
Panda Commemoratives and the China Unicorn
Beyond the yearly bullion pandas, China has issued a long line of panda commemoratives: coins for coin shows and expos, anniversary issues, colorized and gilded pandas, and large-format proofs sold in original boxes with certificates. Many were made in small numbers, and some are worth many times their metal value.
The China Unicorn coins are another favorite with advanced collectors. Struck from 1994 to 1997 in gold, silver and platinum, in limited numbers, they are much scarcer than pandas. NGC’s price guide lists dozens of Unicorn issues. If you have one, keep the original box and certificate with it. Both can add to the value.
Pre-1949 Chinese Silver Coins
Silver coins struck before 1949 are the heart of Chinese numismatics, and they are the coins we are asked about most:
- Dragon dollars: silver coins of the late Qing dynasty, struck by the central government and by provinces, with a coiled dragon on one side. Some provincial issues are great rarities.
- Yuan Shikai dollars: the “Fat Man” dollars, first struck in 1914. Huge numbers were made, so condition and the exact variety decide the value.
- Commemorative dollars: such as the 1912 Li Yuanhong dollar, struck for the founding of the Republic of China.
- Junk dollars: the Sun Yat-sen dollars with a sailing junk on the reverse. The 1932 issue with birds and a rising sun is far scarcer than the later dates.
Read more in our guides to rare Chinese coins, rare China coin values and old Chinese coin values.
How Can I Tell What My Chinese Coin Currency is Worth?
That’s best done via an appraisal! But due to the proliferation of fake and counterfeit China coins, it may be a good idea to get your coin authenticated and graded as well.
The good news is this won’t cost you a dime if you deal with us: American Rarities is happy to offer coin grading and appraisal as completely free services.
We’re also Authorized Dealers for most of the coin grading services on this list, including:
Not sure how the services differ? Our article on PCGS, NGC and ANACS explains it, and we can tell you whether grading is worth the cost for your coins before you spend anything.
Fake and Counterfeit Chinese Coins
Chinese coins are among the most counterfeited coins in the world. Copies of dragon dollars, Yuan Shikai dollars, junk dollars and even modern pandas are sold by the thousands online and to travelers, and many end up in family collections in good faith.
Warning signs include the wrong weight, a dull or greasy look, soft or mushy details, a dull “clunk” instead of a ring, and coins that look too perfect for their age. Fakes in fake holders exist too. See real examples on our fake coin pictures page, and read more about fake, counterfeit and altered coins.
If you are unsure, send us clear photos of both sides. Our coin authentication opinion is free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you buy Chinese money that is in circulation today?
No. We do not purchase Chinese coin currency that is currently in circulation. We are interested in modern collectible and commemorative coins, such as pandas, and in Chinese silver coins produced prior to 1949.
How much is my silver panda worth?
Every silver panda is worth at least its silver content. The date, size, condition, grade and original packaging decide whether it is worth more. Send us photos for a free appraisal.
I inherited Chinese silver dollars. How do I know if they are real?
Many are not, so it is wise to check before you sell or insure them. Send clear photos of both sides and we will give you a free opinion. Our guide on selling an inherited coin collection can also help.
Should I clean my Chinese coins before I sell them?
No. Cleaning can sharply lower the value of a coin. Here is why cleaning is not recommended.
Do my coins need to be graded first?
No. We appraise both raw and certified coins, and we can tell you whether grading makes sense for yours.
Do you buy other foreign coins too?
Yes. See our foreign coin buyers page, or our page on how to sell a large coin collection.
How do I get a free appraisal?
Use the form below to send us a list or photos of your coins, or text photos to 720-600-4740. There is no obligation to sell.
Always Paying More For Your Chinese Coin Currency
Why Choose American Rarities for Your Chinese Coins?
Selling a specialized collection requires a buyer with deep market knowledge.
- Expertise: We have over 30 years of experience buying and selling rare Chinese coins.
- Trust: We are proud of our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and our 4.7-star rating on Google.
- Fair Price: We have an active client base seeking these specific coins, allowing us to offer highly competitive prices.
- Free, No-Obligation Appraisal: Our valuation service is always free. We provide a written offer explaining the value of your items.
Don’t take our word for it – here are some of our publicly-verifiable credentials:
- An A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau
- Life membership in the American Numismatic Association
- Five stars on Google
In other words, if you’re looking for a reputable Chinese coin currency buyer, you’re in the right place.
Use the form below to get started!
Free Appraisal for Your Chinese Coin Currency
Email, Text, or Use This Form To Send Us Your Inventory List or Pictures
Email: staff@americanrarities.com | Phone: 800-622-5680 | Text: 720-600-4740
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