Los 8422

Lot of c. 27 bamboo tally sticks, late 19th–mid-20th century. A group of approximately 27 slender bamboo tally sticks used as auxiliary currency during periods of cash shortages in eastern China. Issued primarily in provinces like Jiangsu, Shandong, and Zhejiang (e.g., Suzhou, Wuxi) between the 1870s and 1940s, these tallies were lacquered, strung for easy handling, and inscribed with denominations and anti-counterfeit markings. Good overall condition, with lacquer wear and typical signs of age. VF. Added; 1inscribed ink stick in very good condition