Japanese Empire 10 Sen Silver Coin, Meiji Era
Coin/Bullion · Japan Imperial Mint, Osaka. The mint was established in 1871 and specialized in western-style coinage techniques introduced during the Meiji Restoration.
Pattern: Rising Sun/Dragon Type (Meiji 10 Sen)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Japan Imperial Mint, Osaka. The mint was established in 1871 and specialized in western-style coinage techniques introduced during the Meiji Restoration.
Material
80% Silver, 20% Copper (.800 Fineness). It contains approximately 1.8 grams of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 17.6mm, Thickness: 1.1mm, Weight: 2.25 grams (standard for this issue).
Description
This is a circulating silver 10 Sen coin from the Japanese Meiji period. It represents a pivotal moment in numismatic history when Japan abandoned its traditional rectangular cabinet money for round, Western-style coinage. The design captures the essence of the Meiji Restoration, featuring the imperial dragon—a symbol of the Emperor's power—and the intricate chrysanthemum seal.
Key Features
Dragon obverse design, '.800' silver content for subsidiary coinage, and the distinct 'Rising Sun' reverse which was later simplified in the early 1900s.
Material & Composition
80% Silver, 20% Copper (.800 Fineness). It contains approximately 1.8 grams of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Struck with a reeded edge. The obverse features a dragon within a beaded circle, surrounded by the kanji for the emperor's reign and the denomination. The reverse depicts a sunburst surrounded by cherry blossom branches and a chrysanthemum crest.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks as it is currency; however, it bears the Chrysanthemum Throne seal (Kikumon) and era date kanji: 'Meiji' [Year Number] 'Nen'.
Construction Details
Machine die-struck at the Osaka Mint using steam presses imported from England during the modernization of Japanese currency.
Functional Features
Milled/reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the silver content, a common security feature in circulating silver coinage.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (pocket currency).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-engraving for the period, featuring exceptionally fine details in the dragon's whiskers and the petals of the chrysanthemum, which were hallmarks of Japanese precision during the era.
Authentication Indicators
The weight-to-diameter ratio appears consistent with 19th-century Japanese mint standards. The 'mushy' details suggest honest wear rather than the casting bubbles found in modern counterfeits.
Origin & Manufacturing
Osaka, Japan; Tokyo Mint Bureau. Manufactured under the New Coinage Act of 1871.
Era & Period
Meiji Era (1868–1912), specifically reflecting Japan's transition from feudal shogunate to a modernized industrial power.
Age Estimate
Circa 1870–1906. Based on the visible 'Dragon' motif and size, this likely dates to the late 19th century.
Cultural Significance
This coin was part of the first standardized national currency system in Japan, replacing the localized currencies of the Samurai-led domains (Han). It was a physical manifestation of Japan's 'Enlightened Rule' policy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The coin shows significant environmental tarnish (heavy patina), surface wear on the high points of the dragon's scales, and possible 'PC' (pitted corrosion) from burial or exposure. Note the reddish-brown oxidation indicating copper reacting with the environment.
Value Estimate
$5 to $25 USD. Value is heavily suppressed by the condition and tarnish; however, specific rare dates (like Meiji 7 or 13) can command significantly higher premiums in better states.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors are strongly advised NOT to polish or clean this coin. Harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths will destroy the numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or a coin capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
5 Sen Silver (smaller), 20 Sen Silver (larger), and later Meiji 10 Sen coins which lack the dragon motif and feature a sunburst with ribbons.
Interesting Facts
The dragon design was discontinued after 1906 because the intricate die-work required was too expensive for such a low-value coin; it was replaced with a simpler sunburst design.