Question: Where can I find information concerning the coins from the old German colony in China, Tsingtao?
All two of them! The Kiaochow (there are several spellings of this area) was a trading enclave located on the Shantung Penninsula of eastern China (Tsingtao). The Germans, under the pretext of the murder of two German missionaries, occupied Kiaochow Bay and then strong armed the Chinese to give them a lease on this 177 square mile area. The Germans even charged tariffs to move goods from the port to the interior.
The two coins made under Wilhelm II were a copper-nickel 5 cent and 10 cent coin dated 1909. Both coins were also issued in proof. Though they are scarce, the uncirculated pieces can be had for around US$100. The proofs will set you back about $400 each.
What is Tsingtao famous for now? Beer!
