Description
Denomination: Japanese Silver shu
Period: Emperor Komei
Date: c1854
Origin: Ginza mint
Condition: EF 0.968 silver
Obverse: Incuse stamp over 4 Japanese characters in pearl border. translates to ‘Guaranteed Ginza (silver mint) Joze (mint official) on rectangular flan
Reverse: 3 vertical characters in pearl border. translates to denomination = 1 shu silver
Size and Weight: 15mm. 1.89g
References: C#12 or 12a
Features and Provenance: This little Japanese coin exudes history. It was made at the end of the era when the Samurai were the feared warrior ruling class. With reform on the way the Samurai were ‘paid off’ to take on new roles as farmers etc and the old coinage was taken in to melt down. however. traditions died hard and this favourite coin was hoarded by Samurai and peasants alike. In 1854. during the Kai period. Japan was dragged. not so much kicking and screaming. more like whimpering. into modern ways with the arrival of Commodore Perry. The US forced Japan to sign a peace treaty. but that same year (and some think this was a sign that the deities were displeased with the act) fire swept through a bathhouse near the Imperial Palace and surrounding areas and they were burned to the ground. Later there was an earthquake followed by a tsunami killing 80.000 people and hitting Shimoda where the US consulate was to be based. As if to try to change their luck. the period was then changed to Ansei (meaning tranquil government) but further natural disasters plagued them.
Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades in between
Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear
Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear. all parts of legend etc present. visible and clear
Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief. all parts of legend etc present. but maybe worn
Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible
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