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Meaning and Context
The coin method developed as a simpler alternative to the elaborate yarrow stalk method. It became widespread during the Tang and Song dynasties and remains the most common approach today.
- Equipment: Three identical coins (traditionally Chinese bronze coins)
- Process: Toss all three coins together, six times total
- Result: Each toss determines one line of the hexagram
- Moving lines: Identified by specific coin combinations
Practical note
Any three identical coins work—modern coins are fine. Designate one side as "Yin" (value 2) and one as "Yang" (value 3).
Classical Roots
While the Xici describes the yarrow stalk method, the numerical principles underlie coin casting as well:
From Yijing · Xici
「大衍之数五十，其用四十有九。」
Plain translation
"The great expansion number is fifty; forty-nine are used." The mathematical structure of I Ching divination is preserved in the coin method through probability distributions.
The Plum Blossom tradition emphasizes:
From Meihua Yishu
「凡占卜起卦，贵在诚心正意。」
Plain translation
"In all divination and hexagram casting, sincerity and focused intention are most precious."
The Method Step by Step
How to perform coin casting:
- Prepare: Clear your mind, focus on your question
- Assign values: Heads (or inscribed side) = 3 (Yang); Tails (or plain side) = 2 (Yin)
- First toss: Throw all three coins, add values (6, 7, 8, or 9)
- Record: This sum determines the first (bottom) line
- Repeat: Toss five more times, building lines 2-6 from bottom to top
- Result: Six lines form your hexagram
The sums determine line types:
- 6 (2+2+2): Old Yin — broken line, moving (will become Yang)
- 7 (2+2+3): Young Yang — solid line, stable
- 8 (2+3+3): Young Yin — broken line, stable
- 9 (3+3+3): Old Yang — solid line, moving (will become Yin)
How to Read It
After casting:
- Draw your hexagram with all six lines
- Mark any moving lines (6s and 9s)
- Identify which of the 64 hexagrams you have
- Read the hexagram judgment and image
- For moving lines, read the specific line texts
- If moving lines exist, draw the changed hexagram
Probability note
Old Yin (6) and Old Yang (9) are less common than stable lines. When they appear, they carry special significance.
How It Shows Up in FateFolio
In FateFolio's I Ching tool:
- Digital coin casting simulates the three-coin toss
- Each line's numerical value shown for transparency
- Moving lines clearly highlighted
- Both primary and changed hexagrams displayed
- Full interpretation provided with classical references
Common Misconceptions
Common misunderstandings about coin casting:
- Thinking special "I Ching coins" are required—any three identical coins work
- Building lines from top to bottom—lines are built from bottom (1) to top (6)
- Ignoring the distinction between moving and stable lines
- Re-casting if the result seems unfavorable—traditional etiquette says accept the first result
Sources and Quotes
FAQ
Can I use any coins for I Ching casting?
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Yes. While traditional Chinese bronze coins (round with square hole) are used in formal practice, any three identical coins work perfectly well. Modern quarters, pennies, or any currency will do.
Just decide in advance which side is Yang (value 3) and which is Yin (value 2), and be consistent throughout your reading.
Why is the coin method different from yarrow stalks?
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The coin method and yarrow stalk method produce different probability distributions for moving lines. Yarrow stalks make old Yang (9) more common than old Yin (6), while coins give them equal probability.
Practically, both methods work well. The coin method is much faster (minutes vs. 20-30 minutes for yarrow) and more accessible.