1914 Gansu Yuan Shikai One Dollar Coin (Light-Edge Trial Strike)

<p>This is a 1914 Gansu-added character Yuan Shikai portrait silver dollar proof coin with a plain edge, one of the rarest and most prestigious varieties in the Republic of China silver dollar series. The obverse features a side profile of Yuan Shikai in military uniform, inscribed with "Republic of China, Year 3," flanked by the characters "Gansu" on both sides; the lettering is precise and deeply engraved. The reverse displays a sheaf of grain encircling the denomination "One Dollar," with立体饱满 wheat stalk details and perfectly straight teeth along a custom plain-edge design.</p><p>Originally minted in very limited quantities for trial purposes, this coin was never widely circulated. Genuine specimens are exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors of modern machine-struck coins. This example exhibits mature, thick toning with natural historical wear, clear and complete imagery, and excellent preservation. It has consistently realized auction prices ranging from 320 to 400 thousand yuan at major reputable auction houses, offering exceptional numismatic historical value, variety research significance, and top-tier antique investment potential.</p>