CVC & Collectables presents this 1914 China Silver Dollar (1 Yuan) was issued in Year 3 of the Republic of China and features the iconic portrait of Yuan Shih-kai (Yuan Shikai). Attributed as L&M-63, this early issue of the famous Chinese “Fat Man Dollar” series has been certified NGC XF Details (Cleaned).
Coin Highlights:
- Country: China
- Year: 1914 / Republic Year 3
- Denomination: 1 Yuan (Dollar)
- Attribution: L&M-63
- Portrait: Yuan Shih-kai (Yuan Shikai)
- Composition: Silver
- Weight Standard: Approximately 26.4 grams
- Grade: NGC XF Details
- Obverse: Left-facing portrait of Yuan Shih-kai in military uniform with the Republic Year 3 inscription above.
- Reverse: Chinese characters 壹圓 (One Yuan) surrounded by a detailed wreath.
- Certification: Authenticated and graded by NGC.
Design & Devices
The obverse features a left-facing portrait of Yuan Shih-kai wearing his military uniform. The Chinese inscription 中華民國三年 translates to “Republic of China, Year 3,” corresponding to 1914.
The reverse displays the denomination 壹圓, meaning One Yuan, surrounded by an ornate wreath. This design became one of the most recognizable silver-dollar types produced during China’s early Republican era.
Yuan Shih-kai History
Yuan Shih-kai was a prominent military and political leader during the collapse of the Qing dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China. He became the Republic’s first formal president in 1913.
In 1915, Yuan attempted to replace the Republic with a new monarchy under himself as emperor. The move faced widespread opposition and was abandoned in 1916. Yuan died later that year, but his portrait silver-dollar design continued to be produced and circulate well after his death.
Historical Significance
The 1914 Year 3 issue is especially important because it represents the introductory year of the standard Yuan Shih-kai portrait dollar type that would become one of China’s principal silver trade coins. These large silver coins circulated extensively and became an important part of China’s monetary system during a period of significant political change.
Known widely among collectors as “Fat Man Dollars,” Yuan Shih-kai dollars are now a major specialty within Chinese numismatics, with collectors pursuing them by date, variety, mint characteristics, and specialized attribution.
Collectibility
As a 1914 Year 3 L&M-63, this coin represents the foundational date of the classic Yuan Shih-kai silver-dollar series. Its historical importance, substantial silver format, recognizable design, and NGC XF Details certification make it an appealing example for collectors of Chinese and early Republican coinage. Find more like it here!
