1 Yen Empire of Japan (1868-1947) Silver Meiji the Great (1852 - 1912)

1886/1897, Japan, Meiji. Silver Yen Coin

Mint Place: Osaka

Denomination: 1 Yen

Reference: KM-Y#28a.1.

Mint Year/Countermark Year: 1886 (Year 20) / 1897

Diameter: 38.6mm

Weight: 26.81gm

Material: Silver

Countermarked yen refers to Japanese trade dollars and 1 yen coins that are stamped 銀 (gin), literally meaning “silver”. The countermark was added by the Japanese government in 1897 to these coins dated up to that point. This came at a time when Japan went onto the gold standard prompting the government to confine these two denominations for use outside the mainland. Due to their eye appeal, these coins are now regarded as collectibles by preference.

The Meiji Restoration (明治維新, Meiji Ishin), referred to at the time as the Honorable Restoration (御一新, Goisshin), and also known as the Meiji Renovation, Revolution, Regeneration, Reform, or Renewal, was a political event that restored practical imperial rule to Japan in 1868 under Emperor Meiji. Although there were ruling emperors before the Meiji Restoration, the events restored practical abilities and consolidated the political system under the Emperor of Japan.  The goals of the restored government were expressed by the new emperor in the Charter Oath. The Restoration led to enormous changes in Japan’s political and social structure and spanned both the late Edo period (often called the Bakumatsu) and the beginning of the Meiji era, during which time Japan rapidly industrialized and adopted Western ideas and production methods.