Chinese Coin Origin | Replic Cash Coin

Quite correct. Chinese coins rarely have "Western" numerals on them to indicate dates until the Communist takeover in 1949. Taiwanese coins still don't use Western AD dates.

This is a "fantasy cash". The obverse inscription is just like that which appeared on coins during the dates given on the reverse, 1862-1875, during the reign of the Tong Zhi Emperor. It would most likely have been made no earlier than the 1950s.

"Coins" like this piece are often sold as a set of twelve reproduction coins, intended to illustrate the designs used on cash coins of the Qing Dynasty.

The other giveaway to their non-genuineness is the spotty background pattern on the obverse. The dots are intended to simulate the sandy background you get from a genuine cast coin, whereas these replicas are machine-struck.

As for how it got to New Zealand, presumably in the pockets of a tourist, or perhaps bought at a local flea market where imitation coins like this are often sold by the bowlful.

Welcome to the forum, benoldays!

Here's a thought! You could find real cash coins from different emperors and different provinces of China - it might be more rewarding! It is possible to find quite an array for a reasonable price. But again, just a thought ... you can totally ignore me.