The design of new coins during Wang Mang's period is reminiscent of a unique currency circulated in Zhao during the Warring States Period - shovel-shaped coins. Wang Mang, this famous turning point figure in history, is often labeled as a "usurper" and a "powerful official" because of his profound influence on the Han Dynasty. He did end the imperial rule of the Western Han Dynasty through a series of means and boldly changed the name of the country. These actions naturally triggered widespread recognition of his negative image by future generations. However, such a judgment is based on the political struggle and power changes in the historical context, and the details of its currency design reflect the cultural characteristics and economic changes of that era.
The monetary innovations in Wang Mang's reforms, especially the design of new coins, were obviously inspired by the shovel-shaped coins. This ancient coin combined its unique shovel-shaped outline with the currency culture of the time and became a It became an important part of the monetary system during Wang Mang's period. The similarity in the shape of the new coins to the shovel-shaped coins of Zhao State not only reflects Wang Mang's regime's attempt to stabilize the economic order, but also reflects his reference and integration of the monetary art of the Warring States Period. Although it ultimately failed to last, this currency design undoubtedly left a deep mark on history and serves as an important clue to understanding that tumultuous period.