Dajia Jenn Lann Temple Gold Money Toad Charm Appraisal

Dajia Jenn Lann Temple Gold Money Toad Charm

This item is a miniature decorative charm or token featuring a three-legged 'Money Toad' (Jin Chan), a popular symbol of wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture. The charm is finished in a bright gold tone and is mounted on a light blue and white card within a protective clear plastic sleeve. The toad is depicted holding a traditional Chinese coin in its mouth, which is a classic motif representing the summoning of riches. The backing card features red and black Chinese characters identifying it with the 'Dajia Jenn Lann Temple' (Ta Chia Jenn Lann Gong), one of the most famous Mazu temples in Taiwan. Below the temple name, the specific text '咬錢金龜' suggests its role as a wealth-biting charm. The item appears to be made of a gold-plated base metal or plastic, showing high-reflectivity and a smooth cast finish. The craftmanship is typical of contemporary religious or cultural souvenirs, with defined relief details on the toad's back and the coin. The condition is excellent and appears to be in its original packaging, showing no signs of tarnish, wear, or physical damage. This style of charm is often used as a 'mother money' (qianmu) token, intended to be kept in a wallet or placed in a business to attract luck. It likely dates from the contemporary period (last 10-15 years) and is a mass-produced but culturally significant devotional object.