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Mameitagin 'Genroku Mameitagin' Large 元
| Issuer | Tokugawa Shogunate |
|---|---|
| Year | 1695-1706 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Reference(s) | JNDA#09-60, KM# C17.1 |
| Obverse description | Convex, domed field bearing a bold, deeply impressed complex Kanji stamp occupying the majority of the surface. The central mark consists of an elaborate superimposed monogram incorporating the character 元 (Gen) together with additional shogunal assay marks, all struck in high relief by a hand-held die onto the irregularly shaped silver flan. The surface displays the characteristic textured, granular finish typical of Genroku-era mameitagin production. Toning is dark with silvery highlights on the raised elements. |
|---|---|
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| Reverse script | Japanese (Kanji) |
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| Additional information |
The Genroku Mameitagin was introduced in 1695 as part of the Shogunate's deliberate currency debasement under Rōjū Ogiwara Shigehide, who slashed the silver fineness of the mameitagin from roughly 80% to 64% — a policy that generated enormous profit for the treasury but triggered the first serious price inflation in Edo-period Japan. Merchants recognized the debasement almost immediately, and exchange rates between old and new silver adjusted within months of issue.
The "Large 元" designation distinguishes this stamp size from other Genroku-era countermarks applied during the same recoinage campaign.