Japanese Coin | Silver Ichibugin

The Japanese Silver Ichibugin, minted in the 19th century, represents a significant artifact from Japan's Edo period (1603-1868). It was introduced during the Ansei era (1859-1868) as part of a broader monetary reform aimed at stabilizing the country's economy. The Ichibugin is distinctive due to its unique rectangular shape and intricate design, differing markedly from the round coins commonly seen in other parts of the world at the time. The Ichibugin was valued at one-fourth of a ryo, the principal gold coin of the period, making it an essential component in the daily transactions of the Japanese economy.

Crafted from high-quality silver, the Ichibugin coins were also notable for their craftsmanship. Each coin was hand-stamped, which means slight variations can be found among individual specimens, adding to their uniqueness and historical value. The craftsmanship of these coins exemplifies the advanced metallurgical skills present in Japan during the late Edo period.

The introduction of the Ichibugin was part of the Tokugawa shogunate's efforts to reform and standardize the currency system, which had become fragmented and complex. Prior to this, Japan had a bewildering array of local currencies and commodity monies that hindered economic efficiency and trade. The Ichibugin helped simplify transactions and facilitated greater economic stability during a time of considerable internal and external pressures, including the impending end of the shogunate and the subsequent Meiji Restoration.

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

Your coin will look very similar to the ones shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces.

The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

The Japanese silver ichibugin coin, minted during the late Edo period (1832–1870), was mass-produced as part of Japan's transition from traditional commodity-based trade to a monetary economy influenced by international pressures. The ichibugin was struck in significant quantities to meet the growing needs of both domestic and international markets, particularly in treaty ports where foreign traders required standardized currency.

Owning an ichibugin today is possible because these coins were produced in substantial numbers and were well-preserved over time. Their silver composition, a hallmark of durability, has helped many ichibugin coins survive centuries of use and storage. During the Meiji Restoration, as Japan modernized its currency system, many of these older coins were taken out of circulation and either melted down or preserved as relics of the past. Those that were not destroyed became collectible items, valued for their historical significance and unique design.