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Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56660
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| Metal/Chg | Bid | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Updated: 07/30/25 09:08:01 | ||
Gold
-51.19
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$3,274.98 | $3,287.44 |
The China 100 Yuan 1 Ounce Gold Dragon 1988 Small Date PF Details NGC represents a captivating entry into modern Chinese numismatics, fusing ancient symbolism with the high craftsmanship of the People’s Republic’s minting revival in the 1980s. This one-ounce gold proof coin pays homage to the revered dragon—a creature of strength, prosperity, and imperial power in Chinese tradition. Issued as a commemorative piece in 1988, the coin captures the nation’s cultural pride and burgeoning identity in the global bullion and collector market. Despite bearing a “Proof Details” designation from NGC, often indicating a flaw such as cleaning or surface alteration, this specimen remains highly collectible due to its rarity, precious metal content, and the desirability of the Small Date variety.
In the late 1980s, China’s numismatic industry began producing coins of international standard, both in design and metal purity. The 1988 Gold Dragon was part of this new wave, following the international acclaim of the Gold Panda series. Rather than portraying a contemporary or annual animal image, this issue harkens back to deep-rooted cultural imagery—the Chinese dragon. The dragon is not only a powerful national symbol but also one that embodies a long lineage of folklore, imperial heritage, and reverence for cosmic harmony. This choice of subject appealed strongly to collectors within China and abroad, particularly at a time when Chinese bullion was just gaining a foothold in Western numismatic circles.
The obverse of the coin features an intricately detailed rendering of the Great Wall of China, symbolizing strength, endurance, and the long-standing unity of the Chinese people. It winds elegantly through mountainous terrain, evoking a sense of permanence and grandeur. The top inscriptions in Chinese read “中华人民共和国” (People’s Republic of China), while the date “1988” is inscribed at the bottom. The Small Date version, as seen on this example, is characterized by more compact numerals with tighter spacing, which distinguish it from the more common Large Date variety. This variety is of special interest to collectors who specialize in Chinese die variations or varieties from this era.
On the reverse, the majestic dragon design is nothing short of a visual spectacle. The dragon is shown flying among clouds, its sinuous form dynamically rendered in fine detail. Its fierce expression, flaring whiskers, and outstretched claws are hallmarks of Chinese imperial iconography. Unlike Western dragons, the Chinese version symbolizes protection and benevolence. The coin’s denomination “100 元” is placed beneath the dragon, and the gold content “1 oz Au .999” is noted to the right of the design. The artistic composition, particularly in proof format, is enhanced by the contrast between frosted devices and mirrorlike fields, offering a vivid and reflective presentation even when labeled “Details” due to a post-mint flaw.
The coin was minted at the Shanghai Mint, one of the oldest and most esteemed mints in China, responsible for a large portion of the country’s early modern precious metal issues. These coins were struck using high-pressure presses to achieve deep cameo contrast, sharp relief, and refined surfaces. However, the nature of proof surfaces makes them highly susceptible to handling damage or improper cleaning, which may result in a “Details” grade from grading services like NGC. While this designation affects the numerical grade, it does not diminish the coin’s desirability among collectors who prioritize rarity, visual appeal, or variety above perfection.
The mintage of the 1988 1 oz Gold Dragon coin was low, with estimates generally placing total production at or below 10,000 pieces. The Small Date subtype makes up only a fraction of that figure. This low production number, coupled with the survival rate of fully intact, unaltered specimens, creates strong demand in the secondary market. Many of these coins were sold into the domestic Chinese market or exported in limited quantities to international distributors and dealers, further limiting their accessibility today. Collectors of Chinese modern gold coins often seek out both Small and Large Date varieties to complete their sets, adding value to this variant despite its “Details” designation.
The PF Details label from NGC indicates that while the coin retains its proof characteristics—such as frosted devices and mirrored fields—it exhibits some kind of issue that precludes a numerical grade. These issues typically include signs of cleaning, light scratches, retooling, or other surface alterations not present at the time of minting. Although these features may reduce market value compared to numerically graded examples, they often do not detract from the overall beauty of the piece, especially in hand. Collectors often consider “Details” coins as opportunities to acquire otherwise rare types at a more accessible price point.
Despite its condition, this coin retains full design integrity and strong strike detail, characteristics that are especially important for collectors of artful coinage. The bold presentation of the dragon remains as striking as on higher-graded examples, and the coin’s gold content ensures intrinsic value regardless of surface flaws. Additionally, owning a Small Date variety allows a collector to engage in the specialized world of modern Chinese variety collecting, a growing niche within global numismatics. Many variety collectors view the Small Date as essential to completing a proper type set of Chinese commemorative coins from this era.
The one-ounce size and .999 gold fineness elevate this coin beyond mere collectible—it is also a form of investment bullion. As gold continues to serve as a store of value and hedge against inflation, coins like this offer both tangible wealth and cultural legacy. Though it is not a bullion coin in the strictest sense, given its proof finish and limited mintage, it shares in the dual appeal that makes such coins so attractive to global investors. A coin with historical relevance, artistic merit, and intrinsic metal value represents a convergence of multiple collecting motivations.
The 1988 China Gold Dragon Proof coin also serves as a bridge between China’s ancient imperial past and its emergence as a leader in modern numismatics. The dragon, a timeless symbol of authority and good fortune, speaks to a long continuum of cultural values. Its inclusion on a high-denomination gold coin underscores its continued importance and power in the Chinese imagination. This coin, even in PF Details condition, remains a testament to the craftsmanship and vision of the Chinese Mint as it began its ascent on the world’s numismatic stage.
The China 100 Yuan 1 Ounce Gold Dragon 1988 Small Date PF Details NGC remains a significant acquisition for collectors of modern Chinese coinage, gold coins, or world numismatic rarities. While not numerically graded, its proof quality, visual detail, low mintage, and recognized Small Date variety make it a compelling piece with lasting appeal. Whether displayed for its design, held for its intrinsic value, or cherished as part of a broader pursuit of Chinese varieties, this coin stands as a proud emblem of artistic tradition and numismatic evolution.