(1886-1912) Japan Silver Yen Mutsuhito Era (Chopmarked)
Numismatic
(1886-1912) Japan Silver Yen Mutsuhito Era (Chopmarked)
During the Mutsuhito era, spanning from 1886 to 1912, Japan produced a remarkable silver 1 Yen coin designed specifically to challenge the United States dollar in the bustling markets of mainland China. Struck from 0.900 fine silver with a precious metal weight of 0.7801 troy ounces, these pieces played a vital role in international commerce. The obverse features a highly detailed dragon surrounded by Japanese lettering, while the reverse displays the denomination of 1 Yen nestled within a traditional wreath. The legends on the coin also denote its weight and purity, including the English inscription ONE YEN and the fineness of 900. What makes these particular circulated specimens incredibly fascinating are the distinct chopmarks left on their surfaces. These unique merchant stamps were applied by Chinese traders to verify the weight and purity of the silver, leaving a permanent physical record of the coin's active journey through the channels of historic global trade.
Fair market value
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Prices shown are estimated fair market values based on live spot prices and typical dealer ask premiums. They are provided for informational purposes only and are not an offer to buy or sell. The price a dealer will pay for an item (bid) is typically 10–20% below the values shown, depending on the item, its condition, and current market conditions.
Specifications
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Year | 1886-1912 |
| Grade | Average Circulated |
| Legal-tender face value | 1 YEN |
| Metal | Silver |
| Weight | 0.7801 troy oz |
| Purity | .900 |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | N/A mm |
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