½ Liang (Type 5)

The Ban Liang, meaning half-ounce, represents a foundational moment in Chinese numismatics, originating from the standardization efforts of the Qin Dynasty under Qin Shi Huang. By replacing the diverse and irregular currencies of the Warring States period with this circular coin featuring a square hole, the state established a monetary system that would persist in form for over two millennia. The Type 5 variant specifically reflects the transition into the early Western Han Dynasty, maintaining the classic aesthetic of the Qin era while adapting to the evolving economic policies of the new imperial administration.

The design of the Ban Liang is minimalist and highly functional, featuring the two seal script characters for 'half' and 'ounce' positioned on either side of the central square perforation. This design was intended to facilitate easy transport by stringing coins on cord, a practical necessity for merchants and officials alike. While the specific craftsmen behind these bronze castings remain anonymous, the coins were produced in state-sanctioned foundries, reflecting the centralized control and rigorous standardization that defined the period's efforts to unify the Chinese economy.