China Zhou Dynasty Ant-nose money (ghost face money) 401BC-220BC

China Zhou Dynasty Ant-nose money (ghost face money) 401BC-220BC, 2.3gm 16mm X 10.2mm, Bronze AE, Shape oval (with hole), Cast coin over 2246 years old

Obverse: One primitive Chinese ideogram.  Lettering: 貝, Translation: Bei Shell,

Reverse: Flat, Edge Plain

Reference:  Hartill #1.1–1.11

Physical description: These coins were small, convex on one side, and flat on the other, resembling a shell. Their markings are said to look like the face of a ghost or the nose of an ant.

Origin: The bronze "ghost face money" imitated cowrie shells, which were an earlier form of money used in the Shang and Zhou dynasties. As trade increased, different states began minting various bronze currencies, including the spade-shaped and knife-shaped money of other kingdoms

These ancient bronze ”Ant Nose“ coins date to the Zhou Dynasty (1125-255 BCE), one of the longest and most influential periods in Chinese history. Issued in the State of Chu during the later Warring States era, they reflect the transition from primitive barter with cowrie shells to cast metal coinage. Their distinctive teardrop form with pierced ends and stylized markings earned them the nickname ”Ant Nose,“ a name still used by collectors today. Each coin, over two millennia old, carries a unique patina from centuries in the earth—tangible artifacts of the Zhou Dynasty’s economic and cultural development, and important precursors to the round coins that later defined Chinese currency

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Sku# 1109