1981 China People's Republic 5 Fen Aluminum

Updated August 20, 2026

This auction ended on August 27, 2026. See upcoming auctions from Iowa Surplus & Estate Auctions or current pottery, china & glass auctions.

Lot number	365b
Estimate	1.00 - 3.00 USD
Category	Pottery, China & Glass
Auction	AUG 27 26 GOLD SILVER BULLION SLABBED KNIVES CARDS
Date	August 27, 2026 at 6:00 PM CDT
Auction house	Iowa Surplus & Estate Auctions
Location	Coralville, Iowa

1981 China People's Republic 5 Fen Aluminum 1981 China People's Republic 5 Fen Aluminum Coin Rare Mintage Key Date This 1981 China People's Republic 5 Fen is a highly sought-after key date from the popular aluminum series. Struck in aluminum with a plain edge, this coin features the national emblem of the People's Republic of China on the obverse and the denomination surrounded by a wheat ear wreath on the reverse. The 1981 issue is particularly significant to collectors as it was not released for general circulation and was only available in annual mint sets, resulting in a much lower mintage compared to common years. This example remains in its uncirculated state, displaying the original bright white aluminum luster and sharp strikes on the intricate details of the Gate of Heavenly Peace. It comes protected in a standard 2x2 cardboard coin flip for preservation. 1981 China People's Republic 5 Fen Aluminum Coin Condition: The coin appears to be in circulated condition with visible surface wear, scratches, and minor oxidation consistent with aluminum coinage of this era. The details on the wheat stalks and the national emblem remain legible, though the luster has dulled into a greyish patina. There are no major gouges or deformations visible, but the rim shows slight signs of contact marks. The coin was struck at the Shanghai Mint in China. The metal content is aluminum. Historically, the 1981 5 Fen is part of the "Five Great Heavenly Kings" series, as it was not released for general circulation and was primarily included in mint sets intended for foreign collectors, making it a key date for the series. This is a business strike type. The coin is raw and does not have a professional numeric grade. China, coin, currency, fen, 1987, numismatics, collectible, 5 fen, aluminum, People's Republic of China, coin holder, obverse, reverse, money, vintage Chinese coins, 1987 China 5 Fen, vintage world currency, numismatics, rare coins, Asian currency, coin collecting, 1980s Chinese money, aluminum coins, collectible currency IMPORTANT BIDDER NOTICE Bidder is solely responsible for determining value, condition, completeness, authenticity, fitment, grade, and usefulness before bidding. THIS ITEM IS SOLD STRICTLY AS-IS, WHERE-IS, WITH NO WARRANTIES OR GUARANTEES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO RETURNS. NO CANCELLATIONS. NO BID RETRACTIONS. By placing a bid, the bidder acknowledges that they have reviewed the title, description, photographs, and any auction notices, and have had the opportunity to ask questions before bidding. Bidder agrees that: The item is being purchased strictly as shown in the photographs and described in the listing The auction house does not grade, test, appraise, or authenticate items unless specifically stated By registering and placing bids, the bidder expressly authorizes Iowa Surplus & Estate Auctions to charge the payment method on file for any lots won, including bu

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