I know, they're not coins. But they ARE Chinese culturally significant precious metals, used like coins before coins.
Very very cool. Traditionally silver, in many shapes- boat, round, drum, saddle, groove, etc. Check out the unbelievably gorgeous gold ones from the Long Beach auction. PM me if anyone has these for sale or trade.
Here's a Five Tael (6 plus ounces) modern I may add soon to my collection.