Japanese 10 Yen Bronze Coin (Showa Era)
Coin/Currency · Japan Mint (Zōheikyoku), Osaka, Japan. The mint was established in 1871 and is renowned for high-precision industrial minting.
Pattern: 10 Yen Coin - Laurel Wreath Type (Standard Circulation). Characterized by the numeral 10 and laurel leaves on the reverse.
Type
Coin/Currency
Maker
Japan Mint (Zōheikyoku), Osaka, Japan. The mint was established in 1871 and is renowned for high-precision industrial minting.
Material
Bronze (specifically 95% copper, 3-4% zinc, and 1-2% tin). It contains no silver content despite the prompt's context.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.5 mm; Weight: 4.5 grams; Thickness: 1.5 mm. Standard dimensions for Japanese 10 yen coinage since 1951.
Description
This is a standard Japanese 10 yen circulating coin minted in bronze. It features a rich brown patina typical of circulated copper-based alloys. The design displays the numeral 10 centered within a laurel wreath, symbolizing peace and achievement. While it is a common piece of currency, it represents the economic stability of the middle Showa period in Japan.
Key Features
The distinctive '10' in Western numerals, the kanji for 'Showa Year 40', and the evergreen laurel leaves. It is notable for having a smooth edge compared to the 'Giza-ju' (serrated edge) versions minted before 1959.
Material & Composition
Bronze (specifically 95% copper, 3-4% zinc, and 1-2% tin). It contains no silver content despite the prompt's context.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a smooth edge (reeding was removed after Showa 33). The reverse features a prominent '10' flanked by evergreen laurel branches; the obverse (not fully visible) features the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Embossed with the denomination '10' and the regnal year '昭和四十年' (Showa Year 40, which corresponds to 1965). No silver hallmarks are present because the item is bronze.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured via high-pressure die-striking on a bronze planchet. Produced by the Japan Mint's industrial automated presses.
Functional Features
Standard fractional currency used for transactions. The lack of reeding on the edge (smooth edge) is a functional tactile design choice for this denomination.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a coin meant for palm/finger handling. The raised rim protects the design from excessive surface wear.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial striking. The letters and wreath detail remain sharp despite decades of circulation, showing the durability of the Japan Mint's die-work.
Authentication Indicators
The weight, diameter, and typeface of the kanji are consistent with authentic Japan Mint issues from the 1960s. The patina is consistent with age and environmental exposure.
Origin & Manufacturing
Osaka, Japan; Japan Mint. Manufactured under state authority for the Ministry of Finance.
Era & Period
Showa Era (post-WWII reconstruction period). This specific design reflects the 1950s-1970s era of Japanese industrial growth.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965 (Showa 40). The dating is based on the kanji characters visible below the numeral 10.
Cultural Significance
A fundamental unit of Japanese daily commerce. The use of the Phoenix Hall (on the opposite side) represents Japan's long cultural history and its 'rebirth' following World War II.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Displays significant surface oxidation, darkening of the bronze (tarnish), and minor 'bag marks' or circulation scratches. There is no evidence of silver plating or cleaning.
Value Estimate
Face value is 10 JPY (approx $0.07 USD). Collector value for a circulated 1965 specimen is negligible, typically less than $0.25 USD.
Care & Maintenance
As a common circulation coin, no special maintenance is required. For collectors, avoid acid-based cleaners which strip the natural patina. Store in a PVC-free coin flip to prevent 'green rot' (verdigris).
Similar Pieces
5 Yen (Brass with center hole), 50 Yen (Cupronickel with center hole). Unlike the 100 yen and older 50 yen coins of this era, this coin was never minted in silver.
Interesting Facts
The '10 Yen' coin is one of the most widely used coins in Japan. The serrated-edge versions (1951-1958) are known as 'Giza-Ju' and are highly sought after by collectors, whereas this smooth-edge version is common.