ID an Asian piece from terrible description?

Weiss

Came across a piece recently that I couldn't identify. Was interesting enough that I almost paid the outrageous price for it but couldn't place it mentally and decided not to be stupid (and regret it later, of course).

Bronze or copper, Late 19th / early 20th century 10 cash-type? Maybe 30mm? Fancy dragon facing forward but no letters, numbers, kanji/hanzi/hanja at all on the dragon side. Reverse with evenly spaced characters including two or three across the center (I think). Seemingly more blocky and rounded to my American eyes, so they looked more Korean than Chinese.

Any ideas?

coinpro76

It sounds like you are describing a Kwantung Province coin, google that you should be able to pair the image if it is well worn

Weiss

@coinpro76 said:
It sounds like you are describing a Kwantung Province coin, google that you should be able to pair the image if it is well worn

Similar dragon. But this piece had no writing of any kind on the dragon side. And again, the kanji/hanzi looked more Korean than Chinese. Possible it was a token or something. But it was a really well done dragon and based on the patina looked quite old.

Timbuk3

Any pics !!!

Sapyx

I have seen Chinese provincials that match this description. The voices in my head are shouting "Anhwei province", but I'm away from my reference books for a couple of weeks so can't confirm.

coinpro76

Kirin Province ?

carabonnair

Did it have a ball at the center ?

https://en.numista.com/catalogue/pieces22386.html

Weiss

@Sapyx said:
I have seen Chinese provincials that match this description. The voices in my head are shouting "Anhwei province", but I'm away from my reference books for a couple of weeks so can't confirm.

Closer for sure. I've looked at a thousand cash pieces and none of them are very close. Unfortunately the piece sold yesterday. I may never know