Chinese knife money was a unique form of ancient Asian coin used during the Warring States Period (475–221 BC) and earlier, primarily in the Chinese states of Qi (齐国), Yan (燕国), and Zhao (赵国). Its shape was patterned after the xue (削刀), an ancient bronze scraping knife with a ringed handle, which reflects the ingenuity of early Chinese monetary systems. In addition to a medium of exchange, knife money symbolized the authority and identity of the states that issued it.
Background of Chinese Knife Money
Knife money emerged from the Zhou Dynasty’s fragmented political landscape, where states operated semi-independently and developed localized currencies to meet their needs. The Qi, Yan, and Zhao states relied heavily on trade, and knife money’s portability and durability were ideal for commerce. Knife money met the growing need for trustworthy coinage and currency during a period of intense political and economic competition. In this broader context, it complemented other forms of currency, such as spade money and cowry shells. As each state adapted its currency to its priorities, knife money often represented trade-oriented regions.
Characteristics and Cultural Symbolism of Knife Money
Knife money varied in size, weight, and inscriptions, reflecting the diversity of the Chinese nation and its usage of coins. Like many other ancient coins, knife money was made of various bronze alloys with coin designs that balanced practicality with symbolic significance. Most knife money weighed between 11 and 16 grams, except for the Six Character Knives, which weighed between 45 and 51 grams.
Inscriptions
The characters and words inscribed on knife money signified sovereignty to issue money and likely included mint names or denominations. For instance:
- Qi Fa Huo (齐法化) signified “Authorized Currency of Qi,” emphasizing state authority.
- The Six Character Knife’s inscription Qi Zao Bang Chang Fa Huo meant “Qi, establish state long, legal money.” This celebrated the Qi’s dynastic transition and its authority to issue currency, as well as highlighting its use as a commemorative artifact.
- Characters on the reverse, like shi (十) or gong (工), likely indicated denominations or mint names.
Design Evolution
Knife money maintained its shape while issuing states and local authorities adapted it to their needs. The inclusion of sun and moon imagery in some inscriptions, representing brightness and continuity, reflects the integration of cultural beliefs into economic tools.
Comparison with Other Ancient Chinese Currencies
Unlike spade money, which symbolized agricultural tools, knife money represented trade and commerce. Its distinct shape made it immediately recognizable and practical for transactions in bustling trade hubs.
Economic Significance
Knife money facilitated transactions within and between states. Its purchasing power was significant; a single Qi knife was equivalent to 7–8 ban liang coins, enough to buy more than 23 liters of rice during the Warring States Period. This made knife money particularly useful for larger transactions.
Weights
The weights of knife money adhered to standardized systems, with most knives averaging 30 shu (15 grams). Heavier variants, such as the Heavy Knives of Qi, weighed up to 50 grams, representing higher denominations. These weight systems ensured consistency and trust in the currency, promoting efficient trade.
Historical and Archaeological Insights
Archaeological discoveries have played a key role in understanding knife money. Coin hoards in Hebei and Shandong Provinces provide details about minting techniques, regional circulation, and production. The largest collection of Qi knife money is housed at the Qi Heritage Museum in Linzi, Shandong, the site of Qi’s ancient capital.
Modern numismatics has also shed light on the legacy of knife money. Research has explored the intricacies of its inscriptions, the variability in its weight, and its role in advancing ancient Chinese economies.
Six Character Knife Money
Rare specimens, such as the Six Character Knives, remain highly valuable, with one example selling for over $140,000 at auction in 2014. The Six Character Knives are especially noteworthy. As the first commemorative Chinese coins, they celebrated major events like the rise of the Tian family in Qi or the restoration of Qi’s capital after military success.
Their fine craftsmanship and large size (18.5 cm long, up to 50.9 grams) mark them as valuable economic tools and cultural artifacts. This tradition of commemorative coinage persisted throughout China’s history and influenced later dynasties as well as modern coin designs. For instance, coins like the kai yuan tong bao of the Tang Dynasty (621 AD) and modern commemorative issues trace their conceptual lineage back to knife money.
Chinese knife money is more than just an ancient currency; it is a record of the ingenuity and cultural wealth of early China. As one of the earliest forms of standardized coinage, knife money paved the way for future innovations, like the Chinese Silver Panda series, leaving an enduring legacy in Chinese history and numismatics.
