Korea - Hangul Commemorative

Known as the only "scientifically" devised alphabet - Hangul is celebrated on this proof coin of S. Korea of 20,000 Won, 2006. The obverse was photographed in a capsule because I couldn't get it out. King Sejong had this alphabet created in order to simplify and expand learning. Previously used Chinese took years to learn to the proficiency of higher learning.
King Sejong (r. 1418 - 1450) delighted in science and technology, and supported a number of inventions or refinements of previous technologies. For example, he encouraged the improvement of movable metal type for printing (first used in Korea by 1234, at least 215 years before Gutenberg), as well as the development of sturdier mulberry-fiber paper. These measures made better-quality books much more widely available among educated Koreans. Among the books Sejong sponsored were a history of the Goryeo Kingdom, a compilation of filial deeds (model actions for followers of Confucius to emulate), and farming guides meant to help farmers improve production.

Other scientific devices sponsored by King Sejong included the first rain gauge, sundials, unusually accurate water clocks, and maps of the stars and celestial globes. He also took an interest in music, devising an elegant notation system for representing Korean and Chinese music, and encouraging instrument-makers to improve the designs of various musical instruments.

In 1420, King Sejong established an academy of twenty top Confucian scholars to advise him, called the Hall of Worthies. The scholars studied the ancient laws and rites of China and previous Korean dynasties, compiled historical texts, and lectured the king and crown prince on Confucian classics.

In addition, Sejong ordered one top scholar to comb the country for intellectually talented young men, who would be given a stipend to retreat for one year from their work. The young scholars were sent to a mountain temple where they were allowed to read books on a vast array of subjects including astronomy, medicine, geography, history, the art of war, and religion. Many of the Worthies objected to this expansive menu of options, believing that a study of Confucian thought was sufficient, but Sejong preferred to have a scholar class with a wide range of knowledge.

To aid the common people, Sejong established a grain surplus of approximately 5 million bushels of rice. In times of drought or flood, this grain was available to feed and support poor farming families, preventing famine.
A "Survey of Korean Coins" article, and others, are available in the Moneta Library:

VIEW or DOWNLOAD these Korean Coin articles:
A "Survey of Korean Coins" article, and others, are available in the Moneta Library:
German Coin Techinques in Korea - Won Yu-Han: [ link ]
Korea - A Numismatic Survey - Boling: [ link ]
Rulers of Korea: [ link ]