Hollow-handled spade-money (1) at The British Museum, London

myminifactory

The earliest money in China was shaped after agricultural tools such as spades and knives. These forms were possible because coins were cast into moulds. Spade money resembled the shape of real tools, with the hollow handle originally serving as a socket for a wooden handle. These spades were made to standard sizes for use as currency. During the Warring States period (475-221 BC), different states used various forms of spade money. Several weight systems were reflected in inscriptions on the currency. Han was a powerful state during the middle part of the Zhou dynasty, located near the center of ancient China, in lands attributed to the legendary Xia dynasty: the southern part of modern Shanxi. Although it grew stronger during the Spring and Autumn period, its aristocratic structure saw it break apart when the duke lost power to his nobles. In 453 BCE, Han was divided into three successor states: Zhao, Wei, and Jin. The Partition of Han marks the end of the Spring and Autumn Period and the beginning of the Warring States period. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for public access. Scan the World is an open-source community effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help. Scanned using photogrammetry, processed with Agisoft PhotoScan.