Antique Korean wooden coin chest (Ton-Kwe)

An original Korean Coin Chest (called a Ton-Kwe), made from elm wood between 1880 and 1910, during the Josean Dynasty of Korea. The currency in Korea was the Mun until 1892.  Then the Korean Yang coins came into use.  These were round copper coins with a square hole in the middel.  The value was very low, so large amounts of coins had to be stored up and carried along for shopping.  The chest has nice iron plate decorations, including symbols on the front of the chest that are rather rare to find.  The left one means good fortune and happiness, while the right one is a Chinese character often used in decorations (Hanzi), meaning good fortune and luck. The chest is in good condition, considering its' age.  The wood has been waxed, preserving it very well.  A chest like this is a very rare find in South Africa. Three authentic Korean coins are included. Measurements: length 103 cm; height 48 cm; width 42 cm.  Weight: 25 kg.  The courier cost will be rather high.  Consider this.  No international shipping.