A Chinese dollar issued by warlord Tuan Chi Jui (Duan Qirui) will provide one of the highlights in a January 11 auction of Banknotes, Coin, Bonds and Share Certificates in Hong Kong.
The auction contains examples from the legendary Keith Austin collection, as well as the Michael Phua collection of Chinese currency. The Tuan Chi Jui dollar is the highest valued of the coins on offer, estimated at $7,741-10,321.
 The coin was issued to mark Tuan Chi Jui's election as chief executive of the Republic of China |
The silver one yuan coin is undated, but was issued in 1924 as Tuan Chi Jui (1865-1936) - a major political figure and one of the most powerful men in China - was restored to power and elected as chief executive of China. He had originally been elected as a reluctant premier in 1916, after Yuan Sikai named him as his successor.
The coin features a bust of Tuan Chi Jui in civilian attire as opposed to his usual military dress. Its reverse shows an inscription within a wreath. It has remained in good/extremely fine condition, though it is marred by small ink marks in places and hints of lustre.
A second example will follow in poorer condition, valued at $6,500-9,000. The finest examples of the coin sell in excess of $20,000; a gem uncirculated condition example sold at Baldwin's in 2011 for $26,000.
 Like stamps, banknotes from the first day of issue are highly prized |
Highlighting the banknotes section of the auction is a superb handwritten Qing dynasty note, which will be sold for an expected $32,250-38,700. Issued in 1853, the note originates from the very first day of the series and is in very fine condition for its type.
According to the auction house, a similar example sold for $73,787 at a recent sale.
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