He was very self-aware, didn't act recklessly, and didn't add to the chaos.
That's the way of the Taoist—non-action.
The minting of coins was a matter for the Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of Industry, led by Elder Huo, with Xu Qing mediating.
The Minister of Revenue, Chen Fu, was a staunch ally of Xu Qing. The Minister of the Ministry of Industry had witnessed Xu Qing's methods in river management before, so naturally, he wouldn't act foolishly. Moreover, Xu Qing had long established his roots in the Ministry of Industry, with authority beyond question.
South Zhili may lack many things, but it has an abundance of silver.
From the distinguished officials and nobles to the landlords and wealthy, everyone loves to hoard silver.
Xu Qing seized the opportunity of coin minting to have these people exchange their silver for silver coins.
They had no choice but to make the exchange.
Because under the same value, the silver coins are exquisite.
