The Secrets of Japanese Coins: All You Need and Want to Know
It can be said without modesty that the history of coins is the history of mankind. Coins can reveal secrets and tell us how civilizations developed, how trade, culture and even worldviews changed. If we look at Japanese coins, a whole world opens up before us: from early attempts at monetary exchange to today's high-tech coins. Why should these be interesting to you? Each coin is a key to understanding Japanese culture, its symbols and traditions.
So how can you learn more about coins? For example, how can you manage studying without heavy reference books and find out what makes a coin unique or what its real value is? Such questions arise among collectors and interest in the matter all over the world, from those found at home and now wondering how to estimate an interesting 1953 steel penny value to those who have a handful of Japanese coins in the palm of their hand and are eager to find out more about them. The good news is that today there are modern solutions and apps for identifying and even grading coins, which we will also mention below. And if you are ready to learn all the secrets and find out more about the world of Japanese coins and useful technology, then welcome to join us and let us get started.
From Barter Systems to Modern Coins
Ancient times
You probably heard that before the advent of money, Japan's economy was based on barter, where rice was the main “means of exchange”. This product was used as payment and was also considered a symbol of prosperity. By the way, rice even today remains an important part of Japanese culture.
The first coin
Then came the first coins, the Wado Kaichin, which were minted in 708 A.D. from copper on the Chinese model. However, the population treated them with distrust, preferring the usual exchange of goods. Interestingly, to encourage the use of coins, the government even offered more goods for payment with money.
Coins of the samurai era
During the Edo period (1603-1868), the monetary system changed, and the key coins were the gold koban, the large silver oban, and the copper mon. These coins represented economic power and political stability. Samurai, as the elite of society, favored gold coins, emphasizing their high status.
Meiji Era Reform
With the beginning of the Meiji era in 1868 and the restoration of imperial power, a major reform of the financial system began. Coins began to be minted according to European standards, using advanced technology from Germany and Great Britain. It was during this period that the first dragon coins appeared, representing strength, protection and imperial power. These coins quickly became iconic among collectors.
Modern Japanese Coins
The modern Japanese monetary system includes coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen, each with a unique design and deep symbolism. Now coins are used in everyday life and hold an important place in culture and tradition. More information about them you can find in the table below.
Denomination | Material | Symbols | Interesting fact |
1 yen | Aluminum | Tree sapling | Lightweight and practical, weighing only 1 gram. Used in teaching arithmetic to children. |
5 yen | Brass | Rice, water, cogwheel | It is considered a coin of good luck because of the consonance of the word “go-en” (fate). This coin is often placed in wallets as a talisman. |
10 yen | Bronze | Byodo-in Temple | Known as the “lucky coin”. It is often used as an offering in temples. |
50 yen | Copper-nickel alloy | Chrysanthemum flowers | It has a hole for easy carrying. Symbolizes the Japanese monarchy, as the chrysanthemum is the symbol of the emperor. |
100 yen | Copper-nickel alloy | Cherry blossoms | Popular among collectors for its elegant design and symbolism reflecting the beauty of spring. |
500 yen | Bimetallic | Bamboo, tangerines and paulownia leaves | It is one of the most valuable coins in the world in terms of face value. It is also considered one of the most counterfeit-proof due to its sophisticated minting technology. |
Tip: Use the very advanced technology - the Coin ID Scanner app - that we mentioned earlier. Due to the app you can quickly identify the coin and learn all the basic details about it up to the market value. The app may be an essential assistant for both collectors, as well as tourists who want to learn more and bring a piece of Japanese culture with them.
Modern Money Traditions: Fun Facts
In Japan, money, of course, fulfills its primary function as a means of payment, but also plays a significant role in cultural traditions and rituals. Let us tell you about them in a bit more detail.
Offerings in temples
In Japanese Shinto temples there is a tradition of leaving coins as offerings. The most popular are the 5 yen and 50 yen coins. These coins are considered “lucky” because of their special symbolism. Before dropping a coin into the box, visitors bow, clap their hands and ask the gods for prosperity or health.
Giving money
Money occupies an important place in the traditions of giving for various events. At weddings, funerals or other ceremonial events, money is given in special envelopes called oshibori. The rule here is that the amount must always be odd, such as 10,001 yen or 30,003 yen. It is believed that such amounts cannot be “divided”, symbolizing the inseparability of happiness or support. Aesthetics play an important role in this tradition: envelopes are decorated with intricate patterns, and banknotes should be new and clean (a symbol of respect and sincerity of the giver).
The cult of purity
One important aspect of handling money in Japan is its appearance. Dirty, crumpled or damaged bills and coins are perceived as a sign of disrespect to the person to whom they are given. That's why the Japanese always fold banknotes neatly, keep them in special wallets and make sure that coins remain shiny and clean.
Little Tricks and Tips for Tourists
Japanese Coins - A Great Souvenir
If you are looking for an original souvenir from Japan, coins are the perfect choice. Pay special attention to the 5 yen coin, which can be kept in your wallet as an amulet. It is believed to attract good luck and good connections. Moreover, a 50 yen coin with a hole in it is a great choice. It is unusual and symbolic, and it is easy to wear on a lanyard or bracelet
Tip: Japan is famous for its commemorative coins, so look for them, as they are most often produced in limited quantities. For example, for the 2020 Olympics, a series of sports-themed coins were issued. If you're lucky enough to get this coin, it will become an amazing souvenir (and a profitable investment at the same time).
Look for the Coins Wisely
If you want to find rare or commemorative coins, go to specialized numismatic stores or flea markets located in major cities (Tokyo or Osaka). Here you can find real rarities like ancient coins from the Meiji era or even collectible banknotes. By the way, feel free to haggle at the markets - it's a common practice that can save you money and make your purchase more enjoyable!
At the same time, you can try looking for interesting specimens at ATMs with a change dispensing function. This is a great way to get several denominations of Japanese coins at once, including rare coins or shiny new specimens.
Tip: Check your change for a minted 500 yen coin. ICheck your change for a minted 500 yen coin. The denomination of the coin is one of the highest in the world, and it is often prized for its intricate design and workmanship. Some specialty stores offer beautiful collector sets that include this coin.
Your Key to the Japanese Culture
Due to studying Japanese coins you may learn more about the culture and history of the country. Remember, that each of the coins has its own unique history and symbolism. And even an ordinary coin can be a valuable souvenir or even an interesting collector's item.
