Vietnamese văn (currency unit)

Tự Đức Bảo Sao (嗣德寶鈔) & Tự Đức Thông Bảo (嗣德通寶) - Scan 01

Tự Đức Thông Bảo (嗣德通寶) - Art-Hanoi 06

Annam and its minor currency (Toda) from Art-Hanoi.pdf

Văn was a historical currency unit used in Vietnam during various periods of its history. The term "văn" was primarily used to denote a unit of account rather than a specific coin or note. It played a significant role in the economic and monetary systems of Vietnam, particularly during the Lê dynasty and the Nguyễn dynasty.

History

The use of the văn as a currency unit can be traced back to the Lý dynasty (1009–1225), but it became more standardized during the Lê dynasty (1428–1789). During this period, the Vietnamese economy was heavily influenced by the Chinese monetary system, and the văn was often used in conjunction with other units such as the quan and the đồng.

Monetary System

The Vietnamese monetary system during the Lê and Nguyễn dynasties was complex, involving various units of currency. The văn was typically used as a smaller unit of account, with larger transactions being conducted in quan or đồng. The exchange rates between these units varied over time and were influenced by factors such as inflation, trade, and government policy.

Usage

The văn was used in various forms, including copper coins and paper money. Copper coins were the most common form of currency and were often inscribed with the reign title of the ruling emperor. Paper money, although less common, was also used and was typically issued by the central government.

Decline

The use of the văn declined in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Vietnam came under increasing French colonial rule. The French introduced their own currency system, which gradually replaced the traditional Vietnamese units of account. By the early 20th century, the văn had largely disappeared from everyday use.

Legacy

Although the văn is no longer in use, it remains an important part of Vietnam's historical and cultural heritage. It is studied by historians and numismatists who are interested in the economic history of Vietnam and the broader region of Southeast Asia.

See also

• Lê dynasty
• Nguyễn dynasty
• Vietnamese đồng
• Quan (currency)
• Economy of Vietnam