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Republic of China Year 18 (1929) American-minted Sun Yat-sen Bust with Three-Masted Ship One-Dollar Silver Coin | Old Silver Coin Recycling and Cash Conversion | Hongkang Commercial Firm

Republic of China Year 18 (1929) American-minted Sun Yat-sen Bust with Three-Masted Ship One-Dollar Silver Coin | Old Silver Coin Recycling and Cash Conversion | Hongkang Commercial Firm

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️ Historical Background and Collection Value Explained

In the 18th year of the Republic of China (1929), the National Government commissioned mints from five countries – the United States, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, and Austria – to engrave dies for a new national currency standard. The obverse design uniformly featured a profile portrait of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, while the reverse depicted three sailing junks (commonly known as the "Three Junks Coin").

Among these, the American version of the Sun Yat-sen Three Junks One Yuan silver coin was designed by John Sinnock, chief engraver at the Philadelphia Mint. Its style is realistic, depicting the subject's spirit with delicate detail, and the minting craftsmanship is exceptionally exquisite. As these silver coins were only "pattern coins" and not widely circulated at the time, their existing quantity is extremely rare. They have repeatedly fetched high prices in the coin collecting market and at silver dollar auctions, making them top-tier collectibles among modern machine-struck silver coins.

18th Year of the Republic of China American Version Three Junks Silver Coin・Technical Specifications

This technical table helps experienced collectors quickly confirm the physical characteristics of the silver coin and provides fundamental data for authenticating it.

Specification Item Detailed Data / Feature Description
Coin Name 18th Year of the Republic of China American Version Sun Yat-sen Three Junks One Yuan Silver Coin
Minting Year 1929 (18th Year of the Republic of China)
Mint Philadelphia Mint, USA
Diameter Approx. 39.0 - 39.5 mm
Weight Approx. 26.6 - 27.0 grams (Standard Kuping 7 mace 2 candareens)
Fineness (Silver Content) 90% Silver / 10% Copper
Edge Features Reeded edge (evenly spaced, strong impression)
Design Features (Obverse) Left profile of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, with "中華民國十八年" (18th Year of the Republic of China) above
Design Features (Reverse) Three sailing junks on the sea, with "壹元" (One Yuan) on either side

How to Distinguish Between National Versions? "Five Nations Three Junks" Feature Comparison

Many collectors often confuse different national pattern versions when seeking silver dollar recycling or appraisal. With years of appraisal experience, Hong Kang Exchange has compiled the key differences between the American version and other versions for you:

Pattern Version Portrait Engraving Style Reverse Junk Features Market Rarity
🇺🇸 American Version (Product on this page) Strong relief, finely detailed hair, prominent nose bridge, overall the most realistic and powerful style. Full sails, clearly layered depiction of waves, smooth lines. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Extremely High)
🇬🇧 British Version Flatter portrait, softer facial features. Flatter sails, finer wave patterns. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🇮🇹 Italian Version Signed version with "A.MOTTI.INC.", more artistic style. Smaller hull, wavy sea. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Extremely High)
🇯🇵 Japanese Version Higher cheekbones, deeper beard engraving. Stiffer sail lines, more rigid style. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Expert Tip: The biggest characteristic of the American version is its exquisite "mirror proof" craftsmanship, with a mirror-like field and extremely strong three-dimensional effect for the portrait and lettering. If you possess such a silver coin, it is advisable not to clean it yourself, to avoid damaging the original patina and affecting the final recycling price.


Key Factors Affecting Silver Dollar Recycling Prices

When converting old silver dollars into cash, condition is the core determinant of price, in addition to the version. When evaluating this 18th Year of the Republic of China American Version Three Junks silver coin, we primarily consider the following aspects:

  1. Grading: Has it been certified by international authoritative organizations like PCGS or NGC? Uncirculated coins graded MS62 or higher often fetch several times the price of average condition coins.

  2. Luster: Does the coin's surface retain its original cartwheel luster from the time of minting? The stronger the original luster, the higher the collection value.

  3. Toning: Naturally formed iridescent toning or old patina is highly sought after by collectors; conversely, "cleaned coins" that have been treated with chemicals or physically polished will significantly diminish in value.

  4. Dings and Scratches: Even microscopic hairline scratches or edge nicks under high magnification will affect the final offer price.


Hong Kang Exchange specializes in providing antique coin recycling services, particularly for rare and historically valuable coins. The 18th Year of the Republic of China (1929) American version Sun Yat-sen Three Junks One Yuan silver coin is a highly collectible modern Chinese silver coin. The obverse features a profile portrait of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, while the reverse depicts a three-masted junk, symbolizing China's trade with the world and its open spirit at the time.

This silver coin was minted by the U.S. Mint and features exquisite craftsmanship. Well-preserved specimens are extremely rare and thus highly prized in the international collecting market. Hong Kang Exchange understands the preciousness of this coin and offers professional and honest recycling services. Our experienced appraisal team can conduct detailed evaluations of each submitted silver coin and provide reasonable recycling prices based on its condition, rarity, and market demand.

Whether you wish to monetize your treasured collection or seek practical advice, Hong Kang Exchange is dedicated to serving you, ensuring a fast, secure, and transparent transaction process. If you possess such a rare 18th Year of the Republic of China American version Sun Yat-sen Three Junks One Yuan silver coin, please contact us anytime. We will treat your valuable collectible with the utmost professionalism and sincerity to find it the best home.

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Common FAQs

I have a batch of silver dollars. Can you come to my location to collect them?

Yes, we offer free doorstep collection across Hong Kong. The more you have, the better. We recommend sorting them by type and year in advance to facilitate quick appraisal by our specialists.

1929 US-minted Sun Yat-sen dollar with three-masted ship reverse. Will you still buy old silver dollars that have wear and scratches?

Yes. Silver dollars are primarily graded based on their condition (from uncirculated UNC to good G). Minor wear is considered normal circulation wear and will be reflected in the appraisal, not rejected.

Are graded coins (PCGS/NGC) more valuable?

Yes. Third-party professional grading (PCGS, NGC, Gongbo) significantly increases liquidity and confidence, and high-grade coins can double in value. We also accept ungraded coins and can provide professional on-site assessment.

Is it true that I shouldn't clean silver dollars myself?

True. Do not use silver cleaner, toothpaste, or abrasive cloths. Damaging the patina and original luster will result in being graded as "Cleaned," which significantly reduces value. Preserving their original condition is the most valuable approach.

How do I get a free appraisal from Hong Kong Coin Company?

Simply WhatsApp us at 9453 0784 and send us photos. For coins, photograph both sides and the rim; for banknotes, include the serial number. We typically respond with a reference price within 10 minutes. We offer free doorstep collection services in Hong Kong, Kowloon, New Territories, and Macau, or you can visit our store for immediate transactions.