China 5 Fen Coin (First Issued 1955)

The China 5 Fen coin, first introduced in 1955, is one of the early fractional denominations of the Renminbi system, representing 1/20 of a yuan. It reflects the formal design language of mid-20th-century Chinese coinage, combining strong national symbolism with agricultural motifs. Although it has been withdrawn from circulation, it can still be exchanged through Webuyallcurrency.com.

Can this 5 Fen coin be exchanged?

Yes. Even though it is no longer used in everyday transactions, it can still be processed as part of a bulk currency submission and converted into a single payment.

Key information

About the China 5 Fen Coin

This coin is struck in aluminium, giving it a light weight and pale silver tone. The design follows a structured and symmetrical format, with clear separation between national imagery and denomination.

Obverse (Front)

The obverse displays the national emblem of the People’s Republic of China, centrally positioned and enclosed within a circular wreath of wheat ears. The wheat stalks rise from both sides and curve inward, meeting near the top to form a balanced frame.

At the centre of the emblem is the Tiananmen Gate, depicted in a simplified, layered form. The structure is defined by horizontal lines indicating its tiers and base.

Above the gate, five stars are arranged in a semi-circular formation. One larger star sits centrally, with four smaller stars grouped around it, forming a distinctive pattern.

The wheat ears are engraved with fine خطوط, with individual grains and segments clearly defined. At the base, the stalks are tied together with a ribbon-like element, completing the wreath.

Encircling the emblem are the Chinese characters “中华人民共和国,” identifying the People’s Republic of China. The text follows the curvature of the coin and is evenly spaced, with clean, raised edges.

The background field is smooth, allowing the emblem to stand out prominently.

Reverse

The reverse is built around the denomination. A large numeral “5” is positioned at the top centre, clearly indicating the value.

Below the numeral, the Chinese characters “伍分” (five fen) are engraved, centred within the field. The characters are bold and slightly stylised, standing out clearly against the smooth background.

Flanking the denomination on both sides are symmetrical wheat ears, echoing the agricultural theme seen on the obverse. These curve inward toward the centre, framing the text and creating a balanced composition.

The wheat is engraved with fine detail, with each grain and stem clearly defined. The curvature of the ears forms a natural enclosure around the denomination.

At the bottom, the year “1992” is engraved, aligned centrally. While the coin type dates back to 1955, this reflects a later minting within the same long-running design series.

The layout is clean and symmetrical, with a strong emphasis on clarity and balance.

Why coins like this are not accepted by banks

Withdrawn currencies and foreign coins are not processed by UK banks due to handling costs and logistical complexity.

How your Chinese 5 Fen coins are valued

We apply a fixed pricing structure, allowing you to see the value instantly before sending your coins.

How to exchange your coins

1. Enter the quantity of 5 Fen coins you have
2. Add them to your account
3. View your total exchange value immediately

You can then complete your submission.

Where these coins are typically found

These coins are often found in older collections, stored with other small denominations, or kept from historical travel.

Do you accept other Chinese coins

Yes, we accept a wide range of Chinese coins and banknotes. Multiple denominations can be submitted together.

FAQ: China 5 Fen Coin (1955)

Can I exchange China 5 Fen coins in the UK

Yes, they can be exchanged through specialist services even though banks do not accept them.

Is this coin still in circulation

No, it has been withdrawn from everyday use.

Why won’t banks accept this coin

Banks do not process foreign or withdrawn coins due to handling costs.

How do I find out what it’s worth

You can see the value instantly by adding it to your account.

Can I send this with other currencies

Yes, you can include it alongside other coins and banknotes.

How long does payment take

Payment is typically made within 5 working days after processing.

What is the safest way to send coins

We recommend using a tracked and insured postal service such as Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Turn older small denominations into value

If you have China 5 Fen coins, Webuyallcurrency.com provides a simple way to exchange foreign coins and convert them into a single usable payment rather than leaving them unused.