Drachmas, Doubloons and Dollars: The History of Money

Ancient and Medieval East and South Asia

Korea

The Chinese first established military protectorates in Korea in 108 BC. During the course of the Korean Three Kingdoms period (57 BC-AD 935), the Korean kingdom of Silla emerged as the dominant power. The Tang Dynasty (AD 618-905) fought Korea and exhausted Silla. In 935, it was absorbed by the neighboring state of Koryo. During the Koryo period (AD 918-1392), Korea prospered as China fragmented into several states. However, Genghis Khan's reunification of China allowed him to conquer former Chinese territory. The armies of the Ming Dynasty (AD 1368-1644) left the Koryo Dynasty to rule in name only. In 1392, the new Choson Dynasty was established, which ruled until 1910.

Copper cash Hae Dong T'ongbo of King Sukjong (AD 1095-1106).

Copper cash Sam Han Chungbo, of King Sukjong (AD 1095-1106).

Copper cash Choson T'ongbo of King Sejong.