Have you ever wondered why Chinese families burn stacks of “money” during traditional ceremonies or holidays? This isn’t regular cash, but “tang currency”—paper money crafted for the spirits. Deeply rooted in Chinese culture, tang currency plays a key role in honoring ancestors and ensuring loved ones find comfort in the afterlife. But where did this practice begin, and what does it truly represent?
In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history of tang currency, uncover its symbolic meanings, and reveal how it’s represented today. Read on to discover the rich traditions behind this unique cultural ritual!
The Story of Tang Currency: Innovation, Influence, and Cultural Legacy
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Long before the invention of modern banknotes or digital payments, the Tang Dynasty of China (618–907 CE) pioneered one of the world’s most important financial revolutions. The currency of the Tang era not only transformed China’s vast economy but also left a deep mark on global finance, trade, and everyday life. Whether you’re fascinated by history, culture, or economics, the story of Tang currency offers a glimpse into how ancient innovations continue to shape our world today.
The Origins and Evolution of Tang Currency
From Metal to Meaning: Early Currency Roots
China’s use of money began thousands of years ago, evolving from cowrie shells and knife-shaped coins to the famous round copper coins of the Han Dynasty. By the Tang era, Chinese currency had reached a captivating new stage.
The Rise of Kai Yuan Tong Bao
Upon ascending the throne, Emperor Gaozu recognized the need for a standardized and reliable form of currency. In 621 CE, he introduced the Kai Yuan Tong Bao — a cast bronze coin inscribed with four Chinese characters, literally meaning “Beginning of a New Era Universal Currency.”
This coin became the defining currency of the Tang Dynasty. Unlike its predecessors, which were often identified by weight or region, the Kai Yuan Tong Bao bore an official, meaningful name and a beautifully-rendered calligraphic inscription. The script was created by the famous scholar Ouyang Xun, lending the coins both artistic and political prestige.
The Age of “Cash Coins”
Tang coins were typically round with a square hole in the center — a design both practical and symbolic. The hole allowed coins to be strung together for ease of counting and carrying. A string of 1,000 coins was called a “guàn,” equivalent to a substantial sum in daily life. This format of round coins with square holes became a standard for centuries across East Asia.
A Multiform Financial System
While copper coins remained the backbone of the Tang monetary system, the empire’s vastness and economic diversity meant that other forms of “currency” played important roles. Textiles (such as silk), grain, and even salt often served as mediums of exchange or tribute, especially in regional trade and tax collection. This flexible system accommodated local needs while maintaining imperial control.
The Invention of “Flying Money”: Tang’s Paper Revolution
The Problem: Heavy Coins and Distant Markets
The Tang Empire’s trade networks stretched from Korea and Japan to India and Persia. As commerce boomed, merchants found it increasingly troublesome to transport bulky strings of coins over long distances. Not to mention, carrying vast amounts of metal made them prime targets for thieves.
The Solution: “Flying Money” (Feiqian)
Necessity sparked one of the greatest financial innovations: “Flying Money,” or feiqian in Chinese. Merchants began to deposit heavy coins at specialized money shops in major cities. In exchange, they received paper certificates — essentially early promissory notes — that could be redeemed at branch shops elsewhere.
These slips of paper “flew” across the country and were much easier (and safer) to carry. Though backed by actual coin in reserve, they allowed for far greater efficiency and security in commerce. The government soon recognized feiqian’s advantages, regulating their issuance and using the system for tax transfer and large-scale commercial exchange.
Foundation for the Future
While Tang “flying money” was not technically the same as modern currency (it functioned more as a powerful money-transfer system), it laid the groundwork for the world’s first true government-issued paper money, which appeared in the following Song Dynasty. The Song took the idea further, printing standardized notes and issuing them at scale — changing the face of global finance forever.
Cultural Symbolism and Daily Life
Meaning Behind the Money
Tang coins weren’t mere tools of commerce; they also carried rich symbolic meaning. The round shape symbolized heaven, while the square hole at the center represented earth — a nod to the ancient Chinese cosmological belief in the harmony of heaven and earth. Displaying coins, especially those minted in auspicious reigns, was a sign of prosperity and good fortune.
The inscription “Kai Yuan Tong Bao” celebrated a new era of peace and stability, reinforcing the unity of the empire. The artistic calligraphy turned every coin into a miniature work of art, reflecting the sophistication and cultural pride of the Tang age.
Currency in Traditions and Daily Use
In daily life, Tang coins functioned as both economic tools and cultural symbols. They were strung into necklaces or bracelets for easy transport, used as amulets for protection, or placed under children’s pillows to ward off evil.
The practice of giving coins as gifts or charms continues in Chinese culture today, particularly during Lunar New Year and weddings, symbolizing wealth and happiness.
Types, Variations, and Legacy
Beyond Kai Yuan Tong Bao
While the Kai Yuan Tong Bao is the most famous Tang coin, other versions and denominations existed, including special issues made from precious metals like silver and gold for ceremonial or state purposes. Local mints sometimes produced their own variations, resulting in a fascinating variety of styles and inscriptions.
Influence on Neighboring Regions
Tang coins were so widely admired that neighboring states began copying their design. Coins nearly identical to the Kai Yuan Tong Bao have been uncovered as far as Japan, Korea, and Central Asia, evidence of the Tang Dynasty’s tremendous influence across the Silk Road and beyond. Their design even inspired modern East Asian currency aesthetics for centuries.
Tang Currency in Art, Myths, and Folklore
Artistic Representations
Tang coins, with their elegant script and symmetrical design, frequently appear as motifs in Chinese decorative arts, paintings, and crafts. Their recognizable form lends itself to jewelry, embroidery, and even contemporary designs celebrating good luck and prosperity.
Myths and Anecdotes
Legend has it that particularly well-made or auspicious coins could bring luck to their owners. Some tales tell of coins that could ward off sickness, attract wealth, or even repel malevolent spirits — beliefs that still echo in the use of replica “cash coins” in Feng Shui today.
Modern Relevance and Continued Legacy
Collectors and Museums
Tang coins, especially those in good condition with clear inscriptions, are highly sought after by collectors, historians, and museums worldwide. They offer a tangible link to the sophistication and reach of ancient Chinese civilization.
Everyday Culture
The image of the round coin with a square hole remains a touchstone of Chinese symbolism. From New Year decorations to fashion accessories and souvenirs, the echoes of Tang currency are still everywhere. The innovation of “flying money” also foreshadows China’s pioneering role in digital and mobile payments today — a poetic full-circle from paper slips to smartphones.
Conclusion
The story of Tang currency is much more than a tale of coins and paper notes. It is a testament to innovation, adaptability, and the enduring power of culture. From the iconic Kai Yuan Tong Bao coins to the revolutionary “flying money,” the Tang Dynasty’s financial inventions helped knit together a vast empire, foster international trade, and set the stage for the world’s first paper currency.
More than a relic of the past, Tang currency’s influence is still felt in art, tradition, and even our modern financial systems. As you encounter images of ancient coins, or trade money across borders and digital platforms, you’re experiencing echoes of the Tang era’s remarkable legacy.
FAQ
1. What was the main currency used during the Tang Dynasty?
The primary currency was the Kai Yuan Tong Bao — a round bronze coin with a square hole in the center, inscribed with its name in elegant calligraphy. These coins became the standard for everyday transactions and remained influential long after the Tang era.
2. Why did the Tang Dynasty introduce “flying money”?
As trade expanded across China’s vast regions, carrying large amounts of heavy coins became impractical and risky. To address this, merchants and eventually the government created “flying money” — paper certificates that allowed safe, efficient money transfers over long distances.
3. What does “Kai Yuan Tong Bao” mean?
The name means “Beginning of a New Era Universal Currency.” “Kai Yuan” refers to the start of Emperor Gaozu’s reign, and “Tong Bao” means circulating treasure or universal currency. It symbolized both a new epoch and the unity of the empire.
4. How were Tang coins different from earlier Chinese money?
Earlier coins were often named and valued by their weight, and designs varied by region. Tang coins had a standardized name, design, and weight, with official inscriptions and quality control. The calligraphy on the coins also carried artistic significance.
5. Did people use money only for buying things in Tang China?
While coins were mainly used for trade, they also held symbolic value. People used coins as lucky charms, jewelry, and even protective amulets. Other items like silk and grain sometimes acted as currency, especially for taxes or in local markets.
6. Were Tang coins used outside China?
Absolutely! The popularity of Tang coins spread across East and Central Asia. Japan, Korea, and many Silk Road regions adopted or imitated Tang-style coins, making them some of the most influential coins in world history.
7. What were “strings” of coins?
Since each coin had a hole, people strung hundreds or thousands together for big transactions. A standard string (often 1,000 coins) was called a “guàn.” This practice made counting and traveling with coins far easier.
8. Is Tang currency connected to Chinese festivals or traditions today?
Yes. The round coin with a square hole remains a powerful symbol of wealth and harmony in Chinese culture. During Lunar New Year, people give out “lucky coins” to wish prosperity. Coins are also featured in wedding gifts and home decorations.
9. Are Tang coins valuable today?
Original Tang coins, especially rare types or those in excellent condition, are highly valued by collectors. Their value depends on rarity, historical significance, and state of preservation.
10. How did Tang “flying money” influence the world?
“Flying money” paved the way for the world’s first government-issued paper money, developed in China during the Song Dynasty. This innovation eventually spread worldwide, shaping global finance and making paper money a cornerstone of the modern economy.
