During the reign of Emperor Komei (1847-1866), the samurai of Japan found themselves in a rapidly changing world. Rectangular coinage, like the silver Isshu Gin featured in this stunning pendant, represents the last era of feudal Japan’s fierce warrior class before the country shifted away from centuries of shogunate rule. Struck between 1846 and 1867, these distinctive rectangular coins were a unique hallmark of Japan—the only country to mint such currency—and were used during a time of great transition in Japanese history.
The pendant’s coin is carefully hand-milled, with the obverse showing the denomination "Isshu Gin," meaning one-quarter unit of silver. The reverse side bears the stamp of the Ginza mint, as well as intricate Japanese characters that signify stability in silver quality and reference the emperor’s reign during which this coin was circulated. Each Isshu Gin coin was rigorously inspected and stamped to indicate that it met exacting standards of weight and purity.
This exceptional piece is encased in a handcrafted sterling silver frame that accentuates the historic character of the coin while lending a touch of modern elegance. Measuring approximately 3/4 inch long and 1/2 inch wide, the pendant serves as a beautiful testament to a bygone era, when samurai warlords governed Japan’s provinces and the rectangular coinage of the era was emblematic of their power.
Product Description:
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Coin Type: Hand Milled
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Denomination: Isshu Gin
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Mint: Ginza
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Empire: Japan
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Ruler: Emperor Komei
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Date: 1846-1867
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Metal: Silver
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Weight: 1.9 grams
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Obverse: Denomination "Isshu Gin" or one-quarter unit of silver.
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Reverse: The Japanese characters translate to the mint "Ginza", the silver is stable, and time period of the Emperor. The time period can be identified only to the reign of a specific Emperor. Each coin was weighed and bears a counter stamp indicating that it met inspection.
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Setting: Handcrafted in sterling silver
Certificate of Authenticity with photo specific images included. Chain sold separately.
Inv# T 41287
