Rare Liang Dang Lie spade, State of Liang in Henan, c.400-300 BC, China – Hartill 3.44

Cheng Zheng Shang Jin Dang Huan (“A spade coin worth four orthodox pieces of superior quality”), stout outer rim / Upside down Yu Yi Jin ("Yu One Jin") imprint. 57mm long, 12.1 grams. Hartill 3.44. 

Certified authentic. The reading of this inscription is still not completely certain, and various different readings exist. Excellent quality, with beautiful green patina but with a small repair on the left foot.

The State of Liang, also known as Wei in earlier sources, was a major power during the Warring States period of ancient China, centered in what is now Henan Province. With its capital at Daliang (modern Kaifeng), Liang was an early leader in administrative reform, irrigation, and military organization, benefiting from its strategic position along the Yellow River. However, constant warfare - especially with the rising state of Qin - gradually weakened Liang, leading to territorial losses and political decline. In 225 BCE, Qin forces diverted the Yellow River to flood Daliang, destroying the state and paving the way for Qin’s unification of China.