Vietnamese numismatic charms

What it is

Vietnamese numismatic charms are a family of coin-shaped objects that resemble traditional cash coins. They are derived from Chinese numismatic charms but have evolved to fit Vietnamese cultural practices. These items function as everyday charms, temple tokens, and imperial palace souvenirs. They are believed to possess magical power, such as the ability to curse evil spirits or protect the wearer. Some charms contain inscriptions from real circulating coins, while others feature unique imagery or pseudo-scripts.

Where it comes from

The tradition stems from Chinese numismatic charms, also known as Yansheng coins or huāqián. Japanese and Korean variants share this lineage. The Vietnamese forms developed around local customs, blending Chinese influences with indigenous beliefs. During the Vietnam War era, many charms were produced as souvenirs for foreigners, often bearing inscriptions of authentic historical coins or fantasy designs. This period saw a surge in production, particularly in cities like Saigon and Hue.

How it is done

These charms are worn or carried as personal talismans. In temples, they may be used as offerings or tokens. Taoist masters might incorporate them into ceremonies, though paper amulets are more common for such rites. Open-work charms with dragon motifs are displayed for their symbolic protection. Marriage charms are exchanged or kept to symbolize union and longevity. The method of use is passive: carrying, wearing, or displaying the object to invite its intended effect.

Tools and materials

Materials include brass, plastic, and metal alloys. Inscriptions appear in Chữ Hán, Chữ Nôm, Devanagari, Latin, and Taoist magic writing. Common symbols include dragons, phoenixes, fish, lotus flowers, and the Bagua trigrams. Scripts may contain Sanskrit syllables, Buddhist prayers, or Confucian phrases. The bat shape on gong-shaped charms represents happiness through linguistic puns.

What it is for

Charms are used to protect against evil spirits, bogies, and illness. They bring luck, wealth, and long life. Marriage charms promote harmony and fertility. Some are used for divination or fortune telling. Others commemorate significant events, such as an emperor's birthday. The Five Poisons charms specifically ward off illnesses associated with the hottest days of the year.

Who does it

Ordinary households use these charms for daily protection and luck. Taoist masters may employ them in ceremonial contexts. Scholars study them as historical artifacts and numismatic objects. There is no single priestly class dedicated solely to these charms; they are integrated into broader folk and religious practices.

Peoples and places

The primary users are Vietnamese people, whose traditions blend Chinese, Buddhist, and Daoist elements. Similar charms exist in China, Japan, and Korea, reflecting shared cultural roots. Vietnamese charms often feature unique local adaptations, such as specific inscriptions or shapes like the bat-shaped gong. The tradition spans imperial history to modern souvenir production.

What people believe

Beliefs center on the power of inscriptions and symbols to influence reality. Sanskrit syllables are thought to purify realms. Dragon and phoenix motifs represent cosmic balance and imperial authority. The Five Poisons concept links certain creatures to illness, which charms counteract. Daoist Yin and Yang symbols ensure harmony. The belief is that these objects channel protective or auspicious forces when properly held or displayed.

When it is done

Charms are used during weddings, festivals, and daily life. The Double Five Day (fifth day of the fifth lunar month) sees the use of Five Poisons charms to ward off heat-related illness. Emperor Lê Hiển Tông's 60th birthday prompted the casting of special Vạn Thọ Thông Bảo charms. The Dragon Boat Festival period also influences the design of some protective amulets.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Scholars view these charms as part of the broader East Asian numismatic tradition. They analyze inscriptions for linguistic and religious significance. Historians note the impact of colonial and wartime periods on production styles. Researchers distinguish between official currency, counterfeit money, and non-monetary charms. The fusion of scripts and symbols provides insight into cross-cultural religious exchange.

Compare and confuse

Vietnamese charms are closely related to Chinese, Japanese, and Korean numismatic charms. They share origins in Chinese Yansheng coins. Differences lie in local inscriptions, symbols, and shapes. For example, the bat-shaped gong is a distinct Vietnamese variant. Marriage charms across these cultures often feature similar motifs like fish and dragons.

Questions people ask about Vietnamese numismatic charms

Good reading and sources

• Vietnamese numismatic charm on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data