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20 Sen - Meiji
| Issuer | Japan |
|---|---|
| Year | 1870-1871 |
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| Composition | Silver (.800) |
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|---|---|
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| Reverse description | The Imperial chrysanthemum mon, a sixteen-petalled sunburst crest, is centrally positioned within a beaded inner circle, symbolising the Japanese imperial house. The crest is flanked and framed by an elaborate laurel and oak wreath tied at the base. Above the beaded circle, a chrysanthemum blossom is flanked by two paulownia flower sprigs, forming an ornamental crown to the design. The outer border consists of a continuous band of fine reeding. The reverse is entirely devoid of inscriptions, relying solely on heraldic imagery. |
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| Edge | Reeded |
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| Additional information |
Japan's first modern decimal coinage, authorized under the New Currency Act of Meiji 3 (1871), was produced at the newly established Osaka Mint — itself built with machinery imported from Hong Kong and staffed initially by British technical advisers under Thomas Kinder. The 20 sen denomination was part of a wholesale restructuring that formally abolished the chaotic Tokugawa monetary system of ryo, bu, and shu.
The two-year window reflects teething problems at Osaka rather than any policy change. Full production capacity wasn't achieved until mid-1871, making 1870-dated pieces considerably scarcer.