Its obviously a Chinese cash coin how old?IDK but I think its at least 300 there quite common so not a find you'll retire on.
Dynasty: Ch'ing (1644 - 1911 a.d.) Emperor: Jen Tsung (1796-1820 a.d.) Reign Title: Chia Ch'ing (1796-1820 a.d.) http://www.sportstune.com/chinese/coins/chiaching.html
These were often brought over by Chinese workers who worked on the developing United States rail system. They have been found in big hoards as well.
First ones I ever saw were attached to my Grandmother's little woven sewing box. looked like this one:
folk in china wore them on belts for many centuries, rather than pouches or purses, or whatever. It was a style thing along with a wealth-thing