Fragment of a Da Quan Mother Mold

China - Fragment of a Da Quan Mother Mold n.d. (7–14 AD), WANG MANG Interregnum 9–22 AD Red earthern mold fragment. Non-stack, branching channel type. Positive impression Da Quan Wu Shi in seal script around square hole connected with sprue to other impressions.These mother molds with positive impressions were used in the production of the eventual negative molds in which the coins were cast. Throughout China’s monetary history, manner different mold-types have been used, including everything from directly engraved stone to single-channel molds in bronze. During the Han period, casting in fired clay became the standard. Interestingly enough, for Da Quan Wu Shi’s, ‘stack-casting’ molds are also encountered.Ca. 66 x 61 x 42 mm. 137.71 g. One full impression visible, little to no chipping