Ulaanbaatar
Collection of the National Museum of Mongolia: Paper Money
Art & Culture
Ulaanbaatar /MONTSAME/. Originating from the 13th century, this paper money that was issued in the Yuan Dynasty per the decree of Kublai Khaan was named as ‘Ji Yuan’ (1264-1294).
Material: tree bark, leaves from plants Size: 28 cm in length, 23.5 cm in width
Made through a special process of mixing tree bark and leaves, this paper money is the one with the highest nominal value from the cash that was used during the time of the Yuan Dynasty. It was called ‘2 kuan’ or 2 strings, which meant that it was the same value as 200 coins.
Although most of the writings on the paper money is written in Chinese, the Chinese words ‘Has the rights to be used for transactions in all territories’ is written in square script on the left and right of the middle section, with a seal of the Great Khaan. At the bottom, it says “Those who produce counterfeit banknotes will be executed. 5 lans will be awarded in exchange for providing information about these criminals. This currency has high powers per the Khaan’s division, and is valid in all territories permanently.”
