Research On The Functional Changes Of Chinese Copper Coins In Bali

Chinese Copper coins deeply integrated into Bali culture are the result of long-term business exchanges,ethnic interaction and cultural blending between China and Bali.Copper coins of past dynasties have been used locally,with far-reaching influence and important research value and historical significance.By summarizing and analyzing relevant historical materials,archaeological discoveries and documents,this paper examines the functions and changes of copper coins in Bali from the perspective of historical and cultural development and "Structural-functionalism".The massive inflow of ancient and modern copper coins met the huge demand of local foreign trade and commodity currency economy for small money.Copper coins have long been used to pay salaries,tribute and fines,and domestic or foreign trade,which has promoted the development of local commodity monetary economy and the improvement of monetary system,and even played a role in rural social governance.Apart from playing an economic role,after the analysis of the Hindu culture in Bali,the copper coins were endowed with ultra-secular sacredness,which were widely used in the Hindu ceremonies in Bali and played the role of sacrifice and instrument.The reasons for the deep integration of copper coins into the Hindu culture in Bali are as follows: firstly,from the perspective of religious culture,copper coins conform to the classic teachings and ideas,and their unique cultural symbols also meet the requirements of being used as ritual sacrifices;Secondly,from the perspective of cultural integration,the tolerance and openness of Bali culture,the dominant orientation of cultural choice and the coupling of cultural structure are conducive to the absorption and integration of the two cultures.Nowadays,the economic value of copper coins as an additional part of cultural functions is once again highlighted.In order to protect ancient copper coins and meet the needs of the people,the copper coin imitation casting industry developed accordingly.Imitation copper coins are further combined with local cultural elements,showing a stronger Balinese feature.As a cultural resource and wealth that can be developed and utilized,contemporary Balinese copper coins are not only used in ceremonies,but also widely used to make various handicrafts,becoming an important part of local tourism and creative economy,with outstanding cultural,economic and social values.