My Beautiful Ugly Chinese Sword
 

I just picked up this Chinese sword.This heavy blade measures 20", 2.25" at it's widest and 3/16" on the spine.When I was cleaning her up, I noticed that the washer was actually a coin(what a great bonus).
I think this could have been a halberd at one time cut short.

Looks like a military DaDao with a possibly shortened grip, missing the normal pommel ring.

Certainly possible; maybe originally Boxer Rebellion, reconfigured in WW2?

Too bad the coin doesn't have a western numeral date on it... Anyone read Chinese? :) The coin looks like it once was drilled as a medallion, so it could predate the sword, and/or the sword modification. looks like it's been there for a while tho. Coins were good luck charms, a 'sword' of coins tied with a lucky red ribbon was auspicious.

Think it did have a ring pommel but not positive? It had been sitting in a connor in my office with about 100 others about 8 years. Guess I sold it to you at the Baltimore show this past weekend. glad you like it, Thanks.

Jerry

Like it, I loved it; bought 4 others and sent my friend over for one!Great deal, I'm surprised you had any left.God willing, I'll be looking for your booth next year so be sure to let me know what table you'll be at before the show.
Ruth was really great to talk to; she has a lot of personality.

"广东省造光绪元宝每元当制钱十文"
 

So I ran some search and it seems this kind of coin is produced since 1887 and probably been using till 1912,published in the name of the Guangxu(光绪) Emperor.
Also,"广东省造" could translate into "produced in Canton Province",so the sword is probably made in there as well.

Boxer time!
:D

The charge of the boxers, 1905: (It did not turn out well for the Boxers)

Wow, super great information Sakimori; thanks to you and to all others for their comments!