The front depicts members of the Miao and Zhuang ethnic groups, two large ethnic groups in China, with approximately 9 million and 18 million members, respectively. The Miao, predominantly in southern provinces like Guizhou and Hunan, speak Hmong-Mien languages and are famous for their colorful costumes and lively festivals, while the Zhuang, mainly in the Guangxi Autonomous Region, speak the language zhuang of the tai-kadai family and are known for their rich cultural heritage and festivals such as the San Yue San. Both groups share traditional animist and shamanistic beliefs, although Buddhist, Taoist and Christian influences are present. Both have traditional agricultural lifestyles, with distinct cultural expressions in music, dance and crafts.
The reverse side depicts the coat of arms of the People's Republic of China, adopted on September 20, 1950, consisting of a red background symbolizing the communist revolution, with five yellow stars representing the Communist Party and the four social classes united under its leadership. In the center is the Gate of Heavenly Peace in Beijing, the historic site of the proclamation of the Republic in 1949. It is surrounded by ears of wheat and rice symbolizing agriculture, and a cogwheel representing industry and workers, reflecting the importance of these sectors. in China's prosperity and national unity.
