1995 China Silver 10 Yuan Dinosaur Pterodactylus PCGS PR69DCAM Proof Deep Cameo Coin

1995 China Silver 10 Yuan Dinosaur Pterodactylus PCGS PR69DCAM Proof Deep Cameo Coin

This stunning modern Chinese commemorative is a 1995 silver 10 Yuan “Pterodactylus” from the Dinosaurs series, graded PCGS PR69 Deep Cameo (PR69DCAM). Struck in sterling silver for collectors, it features dramatic prehistoric imagery in deeply mirrored proof fields.

Authenticity & specifications

• Country / issuer: People’s Republic of China

• Year: 1995

• Denomination: 10 Yuan

• Series: Dinosaurs – Pterodactylus type

• Catalog: KM# 791

• Metal: .925 fine silver

• Weight: 27 g (ASW 0.8029 oz)

• Mintage: approx. 5,000 pieces

• Finish: Proof, deep cameo

• Certification: PCGS, holdered and labeled “Dinosaur – Pterodactylus, PR69DCAM” with unique certification number.

These figures are consistent with major references and auction listings for KM#791.

Historical & series background

In the mid-1990s China released several small thematic proof programs alongside its Panda bullion issues. The 1995 Dinosaur series—with silver 10 Yuan Pterodactylus and Stegosaurus plus a gold Brontosaurus—was aimed squarely at the international collector market and helped showcase China’s paleontological riches and modern minting skills.

Only a few thousand sets were produced, and the Pterodactylus 10 Yuan has since become one of the key “scientific theme” Chinese moderns, especially sought after in top grades such as PR69DCAM.

Design & artistry

Dinosaur / value side

• Dominated by a large Pterodactylus in full flight, wings outstretched over a lush Triassic–Jurassic shoreline with palms, cycads, and low vegetation, evoking the warm coastal environments where pterosaur fossils are found.

• A second smaller pterosaur glides in the distance, adding depth and movement to the scene.

• The face value “10 元” appears to the right, balanced against the prehistoric vignette.

• Chinese characters along the upper rim describe the fossil discovery locality and era.

The brilliant proof fields and heavily frosted devices create a dramatic contrast: under light, the pterodactyl seems to lift off the coin’s surface—exactly the sort of effect PCGS captures with its Deep Cameo designation.

National emblem / date side

• Features a finely rendered multi-story pagoda in traditional style, framed by stylized clouds and distant mountains, representing China’s architectural and cultural heritage.

• The inscription “中华人民共和国” (People’s Republic of China) arcs above, with the date 1995 below.

• The design follows the convention of many Chinese commemorative proofs: national motif on one side, thematic subject on the other.

Reeded edge and precise, medal-style alignment complete the technical specifications.

Remarkable denomination & type

Though face-valued at 10 Yuan, this coin was never intended for circulation; it is a non-circulating legal tender collector issue. Among 1990s Chinese silver proofs, the dinosaur types stand out for their unusual theme—more science museum than traditional culture—making them a refreshing contrast to the era’s many historical and architectural commemoratives.

Collector’s value

For modern-Chinese specialists, this piece ticks nearly every box: low mintage, popular dinosaur theme, sterling silver composition, and a near-perfect PCGS PR69DCAM grade. The deep cameo contrast shows off the intricate prehistoric scene, while the 1995 date places it squarely in the formative years of China’s modern commemorative program. It’s an eye-catching centerpiece for dinosaur, wildlife, or Chinese proof-coin collections—and a great conversation piece for anyone who loves both numismatics and paleontology.