Wu Zhu

Wu Zhu (五銖) refers to a bronze coin that was the standard currency of the Han Dynasty in China and was used for several centuries afterwards by various dynasties and kingdoms. The name "Wu Zhu" literally translates to "five zhu," indicating its weight in the ancient Chinese unit of weight, the zhu.

The Wu Zhu coin was first introduced in 118 BC during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, replacing earlier, less standardized forms of currency. The adoption of the Wu Zhu marked a significant step towards centralizing and standardizing the monetary system in China.

The typical Wu Zhu coin was round with a square hole in the center, a characteristic feature of many Chinese coins. The inscription "Wu Zhu" was usually inscribed on the coin, often in seal script.

The Wu Zhu coin remained the primary currency for much of the Han Dynasty and continued to be used in various forms and iterations by subsequent dynasties, including the Xin Dynasty and the Later Han Dynasty, and even into the Sui and Tang Dynasties in some regions. However, the quality and weight of the coins varied over time, leading to periods of inflation and monetary instability.

Variations of the Wu Zhu coin existed, sometimes featuring different inscriptions, sizes, or metal compositions. The Wu Zhu is a significant artifact in the study of Chinese economic history, numismatics, and the evolution of currency in East Asia.