The Chu state in south-east China had a unique culture of its own, yet also interacted with other states. This is reflected in the variety of its coinage: small bronze coins (known as 'ant-nose' money modelled on corwie shells), spade money and gold ingots.

Chu was a hegemonic, Zhou dynasty era state. Following the trend of the time, the rulers of Chu declared themselves kings on an equal footing with the Zhou rulers from the time of King Wu in the early 8th century BC. Though initially inconsequential, removed to the south of the Zhou heartland and practising differing customs, Chu began a series of administrative reforms, becoming a successful expansionist state during the Spring and Autumn period. It was ultimately incorporated into the prestigious Zhou court and interstate relations as a viscounty, a title bestowed in order to pacify it. With its continued expansion Chu became a great if corrupt Warring States power, and its culture a major influence on the Han dynasty. 

(Credit; Wikipedia)

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Scanned : Photogrammetry (Processed using Agisoft PhotoScan)