Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
The coin features a square central hole and copper composition, imitating traditional Chinese cash coins. However, the obverse inscriptions are stylized Tibetan script reading 'dga' ldan pho brang' (Ganden Phodrang), identifying it as an issue of the Tibetan government.
Story
This coin was issued by the Tibetan Government during its period of de facto independence (c. 1912-1950). Featuring stylized Tibetan script, these coins were part of an autonomous monetary system designed to replace Chinese currency, with this specific piece utilizing the traditional cash-style square hole format. The market for early 20th-century Tibetan coinage is a specialized but active niche within world numismatics.
Maker / Origin
Tibetan Government
Condition & Value
Based on the visible evidence, the coin shows typical wear consistent with mid-20th-century circulated copper issues. The value is heavily dependent on the legibility of the Tibetan script on both the obverse and reverse, as well as the structural integrity of the central square hole.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The market for early 20th-century Tibetan coinage is a specialized but active niche within world numismatics. Demand is steady for authentic examples from the Ganden Phodrang period, as they represent a unique era of Tibetan monetary autonomy. Raw, uncertified copper issues typically trade in accessible, entry-level price bands, while certified high-grade examples or rare denominations command premiums at specialized auction houses.
▲ Official Tibetan government issue from the Ganden Phodrang era appeals to specialized world coin collectors.
▲ Distinctive cash-style square hole format provides historical and visual interest.
▲ Legible Tibetan script on the obverse supports the era attribution.
▼ Unverified weight and diameter prevent exact denomination and catalog matching, limiting collector confidence.
▼ Raw, uncertified condition restricts the item to the entry-level market tier.
Best Venue
List as a fixed-price item on a specialized numismatic marketplace like VCoins or eBay under the 'World Coins - Tibet' category. Ensure the exact weight (in grams) and diameter (in millimeters) are prominently included in the listing description to allow collectors to verify the specific denomination.
Upside Potential
If exact weight and diameter measurements confirm this as a rare denomination or key date within the Ganden Phodrang series, and it achieves a straight grade from a major certification service (PCGS or NGC), the value could shift toward the $75-$150+ range.
Authenticity Risk
mediumCash-style coins from this region are heavily counterfeited. While this piece is identified as an official Tibetan government issue, exact weight and diameter measurements are required to definitively rule out later casts or contemporary counterfeits. The current valuation assumes an authentic, raw example.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.